无二设计 | NO.31 Villa

Let us recount the narrative associated with this residence. In the month of May during the year of our Lord two thousand and twenty-one, the proprietor was in the throes of a decision-making process, deliberating between two distinct architectural styles within the same residential enclave, and I had the honor of participating in this pivotal juncture. The ultimate verdict favored this particular dwelling, which possessed a more substantial capacity for renovation and enhancement.

The acumen of a designer is encapsulated in the ability to discern the latent potential of a structure and to conjure visions of its maturation and evolution. Following preliminary discussions with the proprietor regarding the conceptual framework of the design, we embarked upon this formidable challenge.

Upon the initial arrival at the property, several grave issues were immediately apparent: 

1: The interior backfill layer exhibited severe fissures, exacerbated by the proximity to the Li River and the extensive underground water system, leading to varying degrees of seepage at the sites of these fissures. 2: The original entrance to the garage, which in fact occupied the most visually striking position of the second floor's main landscape, had been designated as the main thoroughfare. 3: The dwelling, though spacious, was inhabited by a scant number of residents, resulting in a highly fragmented spatial arrangement. The task of organizing and consolidating these spaces emerged as the most formidable conundrum. 4: The term 'retirement home' made its inaugural appearance in my contemplative logic, presenting a blank canvas in this regard. The consideration transcended mere geriatric design; it delved into the integration of spatial energy with human relationships, where geriatric suitability was but a fundamental necessity.

Returning to the subject of challenge, the essence of design is rooted in empathy, a principle that can be encapsulated by the adage 'Do not do unto others what you would not have them do unto you.' Of course, empathy alone is insufficient; a designer must also possess a broad perspective, a unique aesthetic sensibility, and the adaptability to navigate through adversity, thereby transforming the conceptual visions in our minds into tangible reality.

Unlike the delicate confines of a cozy nest, this residence is akin to dissecting the 24-hour cycle of daily life, envisioning the myriad interactions we might have with the space throughout the day. A morning's dawn, an afternoon's repose, the warmth of winter's sun, and the gentle breeze of summer all serve as the backdrop for our design contemplation.

From the standpoint of comfort, we reevaluate insulation, thermal resistance, energy consumption, ventilation, lighting, materials, convenience, and long-term habitation, allowing the space to truly become three-dimensional.

In terms of style, the owner and I quickly reached a consensus: we aspire for the space to reflect the current state of our minds, where after witnessing the splendor of life, we seek the simplicity of a pastoral existence, enjoying the sight of flora and smoke, and the surprises brought by the changing seasons.

The sediment of the house and the master who resides within should complement each other. The idea of transforming a dilapidated old house into one that withstands the nourishment of time is the origin of our design concept.

Challenges are arduous and protracted. Borrowing a phrase from a conversation with Bekooky: 'Every great achievement signifies the next, more difficult challenge.' Indeed, we are all prepared for the next challenge.

The essence of WUER lies in the concept of uniqueness. In the past, I held a limited view that the singularity of a project and the distinctiveness of its design constituted an absolute singularity. However, as time unfolded, I gradually realized that when we encounter diverse individuals, varying needs, distinct backgrounds, and even different fates and trusts, each can become the unique memory of the project. Creativity may one day wane, and aesthetics may eventually flatten and become massified, yet the stories between people will never remain static and unchanging.