Memories of travel and a nostalgic atmosphere highlight this quaint home in Taipei, Taiwan designed by Shiho Chu from Dial Interior Design.
Coined the Bi Wabisabi Micro Residence, its concept is based on a layout with strategic spatial division. Utilising a distinctively Japanese approach, the designer wanted to evoke the “fourth dimension of life”, from which time will be discovered in the space.
“The focus is on the element of time; the design reveals the memories from the fourth dimension which have been concealed deeply in the owner’s heart, transferring it into a perfect living proportion in space,” Chu says.
To turn this profound concept into physical form, Chu leverages the narrow, vertical height of the space, creating a bookshelf that fills the room from floor to ceiling. This defining interior structure serves to remind the owners of their cherished travel experiences; one of such is a memorable bookstore in Japan.
Throughout the interior, a strong palette of wood tones blends with traditional Japanese design and modern interior elements to create a unique living space. The designer also implemented wabi-sabi aesthetics: the Japanese view of beauty centred around accepting imperfection, impermanence, and incompletion, resulting in a laid-back, homey vibe that evokes a graceful sense of cosy simplicity.
Staying true to Japanese culture, furniture is kept to a minimum – in the living area, only a couch is present; the rest of the space is designed for sitting on the floor. Pillows, mats, and low tables contribute to this purpose, while Shoji screens cover the windows instead of curtains or drapes. Upstairs, tatami mats are placed in the rooms for sleeping and relaxing.
Photo credits: Dial Interior Design
The Bi Wabisabi Micro Residence by Shiho Chu from Dial Interior Design is a Silver A’ Design Award Winner for Interior Space and Exhibition Design Category in 2020-21
