Palace on the Sea

Situated beside a coastal beach, this apartment features expansive windows that frame breathtaking views of the ocean and sky. The interior design is conceived as a vessel embodying sunlight, sand, and sea, creating an immersive experience of coastal living. The design deftly balances contemporary aesthetics with serene tranquility, while respecting traditional Chinese values of Feng Shui and the cultural practices of ancestral worship.

DESIGN CONCEPT

The design concept was inspired by an exploration of light and its transformative effects on space. By bringing the beach indoors, the various living areas are configured to evoke the elegance and leisure of a luxurious resort, reflecting the client’s emphasis on creating a sophisticated yet laid back atmosphere.

The entire apartment is a seamless extension of the coastal environment, with elements that echo the surrounding seascape. The design also incorporates functional spaces for traditional Chinese festivities and rituals, as well as adaptable blank spaces that serve as a canvas for displaying art.

1.

In the entrance foyer, cabinetry and lighting elements are sculpted to mimic the dynamic traces of windblown sand. Integrated metal structures and sandwiched glass panels serve as a symbolic windbreak, fulfilling the Feng Shui requirement to mitigate harmful energy flow across the main axis of the home, while lower cabinetry conceals a movable altar table, offering both functionality and tradition in a sleek, modern format.

2.

The design theme of the living room extends cohesively into the three bedrooms, where the flooring features wood-grain tiles that evoke the feel of a beachside deck. The master bedroom’s cabinetry is crafted from solid walnut, dark-toned leather, and tiles with gray travertine textures, evoking the coastal ambiance indoors.

3.

The design of the altar, infused with respect and reverence, aims to preserve heritage while also serving as an aesthetic display piece. Traditional altars are often visually imposing and difficult to integrate into all interiors; hence, our design approach streamlines its form and scale without compromising functionality.

We proposed an altar setup that combines a focal-point shrine with a movable offering table, all meticulously designed according to traditional auspicious measurements .This versatile setup supports various states to meet different ceremonial needs throughout the year.

4.

The elevator hall features two elevators, creating two distinct entry vistas. One side, which includes the elevator doors and the rarely used stairwell door, is concealed and transformed into an artistic entryway with integrated concealed storage functions for everyday items.

5.

Originally designed as a sunken bathtub area, the space was converted into a combined study and exercise room due to its proximity to neighboring units, making it unsuitable as a bathroom. The desk is positioned at the junction of the sunken area, allowing for ample legroom and creating a deeper workspace without the ceiling feeling too cramped.