Amidst Taipei’s lively urban landscape, a small 700-square-foot loft has been reimagined into a sanctuary of calm and creativity for an artist. The design, crafted by fws_work, is anything but conventional. The firm approached the project with a vision that “every step, every moment, and every scene” should be infused with poetic essence.
The loft’s high ceilings and ample windows were key features that fws_work capitalised on to create a bright and airy environment. The design strategically places openings in the walls, which not only open up the narrow staircase and small bedroom but also capture the ever-changing interplay of light and shadow. “We wanted to merge the outdoor foliage with the indoor scenery,” explains the architect. “By doing so, we created picturesque vignettes in every corner, transforming each space into a unique scene.”
These openings allow natural light to flood the interior, enhancing the connection with the surrounding environment. The result is a space that feels both expansive and intimate, offering the artist a peaceful retreat amidst the city’s hustle.
The colour palette and materials chosen for the loft play a significant role in establishing its tranquil atmosphere. Dark tones were used to create a sense of depth and ambiance, with dark plaster and solid wood providing a backdrop that enhances the poetic atmosphere of the design. The architect elaborates, “Tactile materials were favoured to evoke a sense of tranquillity and comfort. The use of handmade bricks to cover the staircase, for example, imbues the space with a nostalgic touch, while the original stone tile flooring was preserved to maintain the loft’s aesthetic integrity.”
Woven rattan folding doors replace traditional solid walls in the tea room, allowing light and shadows to permeate the space, adding a dynamic quality to the environment. These selective materials and their arrangement bring warmth and serenity to the space, making it not only a functional home but also a work of art.
Every aspect of the design was meticulously considered to ensure the loft would serve as a tranquil retreat for the artist. “Our goal was to create a space that inspires while offering a sense of calm,” shares the architect. The careful curation of materials, the play of light and shadow, and the poetic approach to design all contribute to a living space that is both inspiring and restful.
Project & images: fwswork.com
Article: Lily Wong
