Zhongli Ho’s House / WEN Architect

Zhongli Ho’s House / WEN Architect

+ 21

Text description provided by the architects. In the urban area of ​​Taiwan, people and their place of belonging are intertwined, but unfortunately, there has been little improvement progress for residential projects; many similar buildings are all over the market. Located in one of the most common alleys, this renovation project aims for a better quality of living space and a more poetic decor, without changing its nature as a townhouse.

Goal – Change the status quo of similar model buildings that commonly exist in the Taiwan metropolitan area.

Method – A convergence towards the Taiwanese family culture.

Results – A healing process between the interdependent caregiver and the older person.

The original design was drafted by another architect, and the project team found it unnecessary to deploy a template design on a property with such an elegant building, hence a replacement proposal was made to eventually bring a result perfect for everyone. This project is dedicated to the client’s father, who is going through his twilight years with cancer, which is why the development plan is strongly focused on the eldest.

However, it is very likely that the father could not wait for the building to be finished; the feeling of loss and nostalgia is thus expressed throughout the design. For years, the team’s goal has been to change the status quo of similar models, dedicated to elevation space and one’s residence through a widely acceptable design.

The design of the modeled structure includes the front balcony, the rear balcony and the space between them, all of the same height, perhaps adding a skylight. The project team first overhauled the design by lowering the height of the front and rear areas, restoring the interconnection between the three parts of the space, which significantly improves the overall quality. Second, the staircase is redesigned for maximum natural light without impeding traffic. Various reflections have also been implemented, such as the independent balcony, the interior layout of the dining room, and the deliberately chosen materials, to brighten up the property and enchant it with the softness of feminism.

Detailed explanation – 1F – The father’s room is between the backyard and the fragmented space under the stairs, shaping the healing atmosphere for body and mind.

2F – The cathedral-shaped vaulted ceiling, the window and the long dining table create the ceremonial atmosphere of the dining room, in which Taiwanese culture values ​​the most. The curved wall above the kitchen accentuates feminine softness, with a hint of feminine hemlines.

3F – Between two light-flooded staircases is the project owner’s private bathroom, which connects to the sugar bush on the balcony, the place that connects to the father.

4F – The master bedroom overlooking the father’s bedroom through the balcony, symbolizes the endless feeling of loss and longing.