In the realm of residential design, where the essence of living is intertwined with the poetry of space, “GuanjIng” emerges as a transformative vision. Inspired by the philosophy of Hölderlin, who proclaimed, “Man, dwelling poetically on the earth,” the design studio XIGO STUDIO has crafted a novel ecological dwelling, “GuanjIng,” a testament to the eternal cycle of life and the boundless embrace of nature. Situated in the TianTongYuan district of ChangPing, Beijing, this project involved the renovation of a conventional three-bedroom apartment within a pre-existing apartment building. The original layout, characterized by a central living room surrounded by entrances on all four sides, presented a challenge of limited wall space and inefficient use. XIGO STUDIO sought to break free from this conventional layout, reimagining the space to create a harmonious flow. The balcony became a central design element, serving as a connecting point between the interior and exterior, a “gray space” where the boundaries blur, inviting the boundless sky into the dwelling. Through careful spatial arrangement, the design team shifted the focus of the living room to a diagonal angle, capturing panoramic views through the expansive windows. This strategic approach transformed the balcony into a “landscape balcony,” an indoor garden where residents could bask in the sunlight while embracing the tranquility of green life. Drawing inspiration from Hölderlin’s poetic words, the project embodies the notion of “living poetically on the earth.” The entranceway features a floor-to-ceiling shoe cabinet and a seating bench, while the flowing lines of the space guide visitors towards a captivating horizon. The dining area, seamlessly connected to the kitchen, offers a tranquil space to enjoy meals bathed in natural light and surrounded by verdant foliage. This unique setting transforms culinary activities into an enriching experience. The living room, defined by a pair of arc-shaped sofas, acts as a structural boundary for the private spaces of the bathroom and bedrooms. Flanked by bookshelves on either side, the living room fosters a culture of reading and contemplation. The television cabinet, designed as a multifunctional storage unit, provides a space for organizing daily necessities while serving as a bar countertop. Throughout the project, the designers prioritized the introduction of natural light, creating a vibrant and dynamic living space. The two balconies, embracing the concept of the “landscape balcony,” are crafted with three-tiered stepped seating areas, inviting residents to unwind amidst lush greenery, enjoy the tranquility of reading, or simply bask in the warm sunlight. The bathroom features a curved glass window that allows for a captivating view of the double-layered arched structure, resembling a natural bath in the woods. The extended countertop facilitates daily chores, while the green cabinetry and patterned tiles create a harmonious connection with the surrounding landscape. In the bedrooms, a warm embrace of wood material creates a soothing atmosphere. The master bedroom is equipped with a walk-in closet, maximizing storage capacity. The children’s room, adorned with wood-paneled walls, offers a serene space for restful slumber. The semi-open study area provides ample space for two people to work or study, creating a well-rounded work environment for the entire family. GuanjIng is a transformative journey in residential design, redefining the concept of landscape space. By meticulously analyzing the site’s spatial characteristics, the designers incorporated flowing lines, seamlessly connecting the dwelling with the adjacent balconies, creating a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. The innovative design embraces natural light, offering a fresh perspective on the act of dwelling. GuanjIng stands as a testament to the possibilities of residential design, a concrete and imaginative example of how we can truly dwell “poetically on the earth.”
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