Townhouse Renovation
A beautiful encounter between light and architecture
PLAIN MAKE DESIGN
INTERIOR SPECIFICATIONS
Design Style
Exposed Concrete Finish
Space Area
70 Ping
Layout
5 Floors, 1 Mezzanine
Materials Used
Antique Stone, Exposed Concrete Finish, Steel Cable Structure, Glass, Solid Wood Staircase, Wear-resistant Flooring
DESIGN CONCEPT
Reinterpreting the Dialogue with Urban Environment
This renovation project is situated in Kaohsiung, in a 30-year-old duplex townhouse designed for a couple approaching retirement. The design focuses primarily on the two residents’ living needs. Facing the townhouse is a linear urban green belt and park, offering a serene environment. However, the original architecture has quietly become outdated. Through careful transformation from the inside out, the project aims to reinterpret and renew the connection and dialogue with the urban surroundings.
In addition to adding an elevator, we also reinforced the original structure to better accommodate daily habits in later years. The building facade was redefined and redesigned, with the layout reconfigured to restore natural lighting and ventilation. The surrounding greenery was seamlessly integrated into the architectural design.
To create a more spacious environment with increased natural light, the original concrete-filled old staircase was replaced with a suspended, lightweight iron structure, connecting the first floor and mezzanine spaces and their light. The interconnected living room, dining area, and mezzanine study are defined by open bookshelves without strict boundaries, creating a visual sense of transparency. This design visually links and extends the space through the front yard and street view. The mezzanine study incorporates the open bookshelf as a spatial element, transforming it from a mere circulation area into a functional space, maximizing use within the limited original area.
The living room design centers on a white-themed TV wall with sleek linear divisions to accommodate diverse storage needs. The recessed central countertop features a contrasting wood finish, exuding a fresh and pure modern minimalist aesthetic. Ascending the white steel-frame staircase, the warm wooden steps evoke a homely fragrance. Above the living room, a spacious reading area offers a relaxed view overlooking the dining and kitchen spaces as well as the greenery outside. A simple wooden open bookshelf serves as a partition for the stairway flow, while the steel cable handrail beside the stairs adds a playful touch.
On the second and third floors, bedrooms, bathrooms, and storage spaces are thoughtfully arranged. The overall space is presented in a pure and streamlined manner. With ample natural light, the wood elements balance harmoniously between the white walls and cabinetry, creating a clean and serene atmosphere that highlights everyday objects. Even as a renovated old house, it reflects the homeowner’s minimalist lifestyle philosophy.
The rooftop space serves not only as a utility area but also features an outdoor area that offers expansive views of the greenbelt below and a distant view of the Ferris wheel. This design perfectly leverages and interprets the site's advantageous location.