What Defines a “Door”?
The Qiang Design Team offers an answer that is both poetic and practical: two floating doors within the space act like keys to distinct worlds—each swing opens up a completely different living scene. This design not only echoes the meaning of “ENLIGHTEN” but also endows residents with a unique sense of ritual every time they enter or exit.
The original architectural layout of the project already boasts inherent advantages: the expansive living room seamlessly connects with a full-wall floor-to-ceiling window, and ample natural light fills the space with a sense of transparency. Instead of making drastic layout changes, the Qiang Design Team focused its core creativity on the “entrance” and “details”, using “doors” as the main thread of spatial storytelling to give each area a distinctive character and ritualistic charm.
The ceiling design at the entrance is nothing short of a “spatial magic trick”. The team employed mirrored metal materials to cleverly conceal the obtrusive load-bearing beams, preserving the spatial integrity while doubling the visual space through reflective effects. Whether it is the first impression upon entering or the interplay of light and shadow in daily life, the space always appears more open and translucent.
The overall space features birch wood and metal panels as its core color palette, achieving a perfect balance between “soft warmth and cool hardness”. The gentle texture of birch wood covers the floors and part of the cabinetry, laying a cozy foundation for the space. In contrast, the sleek coolness of metal serves as an accent, appearing in details such as doors, ceilings, and grids. Just as weaving techniques lend a soft touch to stainless steel, this material juxtaposition endows the space with the sophisticated elegance pursued by urban women, without compromising the warmth of a home.
The grid metal element is the finishing touch of the entire space. The design team interprets the aesthetic of “the harmonious integration of hardness and softness” through two material treatments. First, solid stainless steel is crafted into a woven structure.
The inherently rigid metal becomes supple and dynamic through delicate weaving. It not only serves as the load-bearing structure for coffee tables and bars but also acts as a “light-filtering layer” for cabinet edges and acrylic lamp bodies. As light filters through the grids, it casts dappled shadows that fill the space with a captivating ambiance.
The entrance to the master bedroom is made of silver stainless steel, seamlessly integrated with a full wall of custom-built storage wardrobes. The cool texture of metal perfectly combines with the practical function of storage. The moment the door is pushed open, external noises fade away, and an immersive atmosphere of relaxation envelops the room.
The master bedroom is designed entirely in line with the “hotel suite” concept. Breaking away from the traditional layout of placing the bed against a wall, the bed is positioned in the center of the room, with a circular flow path created around it. This design not only maximizes space utilization but also allows residents to enjoy the beautiful scenery outside the floor-to-ceiling window from every angle.
The vanity, bathtub, and shower area are located in the middle of the space, forming a natural transition. The semi-open layout enhances privacy and a sense of sophistication. What is even more delightful is the artistic mirror beside the vanity—the design team incorporated traditional Chinese mortise and tenon joints into its structure, allowing the mirror to rotate left and right. It not only meets the practical needs of daily grooming but also serves as a cultural symbol in the space, embodying both refined taste and profound connotation.
Emerald green grilles, with their gentle texture, form a clever contrast with stainless steel. Applied to the bookshelf shelves and air vents of the space, they not only fulfill their practical functions but also add a touch of natural texture, softening the cool industrial feel of the metal elements.
The door to the daughter’s bedroom exudes a different kind of tenderness. Its warm yellow finish is seamlessly integrated with the cabinet design, and the soft color palette has a naturally soothing effect, perfectly matching the innocence and playfulness of childhood. More than just a spatial divider, this door acts as a guardian of childhood, creating an independent and secure little world for the child.
The design of the daughter’s bedroom is a tailor-made “happy planet” for the child. The team created a two-story treehouse structure: the lower “tree hole” serves as a dedicated rest and reading nook, where soft cushions and gentle lighting provide a quiet retreat for the child to enjoy alone time. The upper treehouse is connected by a yellow handrail, and the process of climbing up is filled with the joy of exploration, allowing the child to unleash her innate curiosity and vitality in daily life.
Design Firm: Qiang Design
Project Name: MEN｜ENLIGHTEN
Project Type: Residential Space
Project Year: 2024
Project Location: Wenzhou, Zhejiang
Project Area: 139 m²
Lead Designer: Wang Qiangli
Team Members: Chi Haoran, Han Junhao
Official Website: www.qiangid.com
Email Address: [email protected]
Design Consultation: 13957749707
Spatial Photographer: Howie
