Bronze Winner of the International Architecture & Design Awards 2026
Through Layers Softly
Residential Interior Design (Housing & Apartment)
Completed / Built / Professional Category
Architect / Designer:
SIAO JI CHEN, NAN SHI CHEN
Studio:
ICS Interior Design
Design Team:
SIAO JI CHEN
NAN SHI CHEN
Copyright:
Hey!Cheese
Country:
Taiwan
This project centers around the creation of a residence tailored for an urban woman. Given the constraints of limited floor area and ceiling height, the design purposefully departs from complex, layered forms. Instead, it embraces the principle of “breaking down the whole into parts” as its foundational strategy. To achieve this, the façade is thoughtfully integrated with the surrounding space, while visual layering and proportional adjustments work in harmony to convert the originally fragmented layout into a cohesive and fluid living area. Meanwhile, a unified material vocabulary is employed consistently throughout, enhancing the overall aesthetic. Furthermore, subtle variations in detail and carefully considered asymmetrical compositions introduce layers of depth within the design’s simplicity. As a result, the residence embodies a restrained yet balanced spatial expression, inviting residents and visitors alike to experience the thoughtful interplay of space and form.
The design thoughtfully eliminates the need for walls, allowing for a seamless visual journey throughout the space. As you step through the foyer, the foreground invites you with a striking focal point and a stylish storage facade, drawing the eye immediately. Transitioning into the midground, the layout gracefully unfolds into the inviting living and dining areas, where warmth and comfort invite relaxation and interaction. Meanwhile, the background leads you toward the study, subtly guiding your gaze through distinct yet interconnected layers of the environment. Moreover, the vertical elements of the design are equally captivating. A soaring double-height ceiling enhances the sense of openness, while the strategically placed encircling light strips serve to elegantly conceal the low beams, thereby redefining the spatial proportions. Together, these features create a harmonious balance that elevates the overall aesthetic and functionality of the space.
The public area is adorned with elegant wood flooring that flows seamlessly throughout, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Notably, ceiling-mounted mirrors positioned between the dining room and living room enhance vertical sightlines, significantly amplifying the feeling of spaciousness. In a thoughtful redesign, fragmented walls filled with excessive doorways have been consolidated into a striking central feature wall. This transformation effectively minimizes visual clutter, while concealed doors and floating wooden lattice doors elegantly reduce the prominence of openings. As a result, expansive blank surfaces emerge, establishing a clear and captivating visual focal point. Moreover, the introduction of an island-style sofa adds a layer of versatility to the living room, allowing for a dynamic arrangement that fosters multi-directional interaction. Ultimately, this design not only enhances functionality but also transforms the public area into a chic and adaptable living hub.
ICS Interior Design
Centered on the philosophy of “Feng Shui, Design, and Living Aesthetics,” we create enduring living environments through a profound understanding of space and a refined insight into everyday life. For us, design is not about chasing trends, but about delivering human-centered solutions that are rational, timeless, and lasting.
From process planning to on-site execution, we maintain strict quality control over every detail. By prioritizing structural integrity, functional performance, and seamless coordination among trades, we ensure solid and reliable construction quality. We also incorporate user-friendly, error-preventive materials to make future use, cleaning, and maintenance more intuitive and effortless.
What we create is not a fashionable house for the moment, but a home designed for long-term comfort—one that truly supports living and grows with you over time.
