Chain10 Architecture & Interior Design Institute: Winner of International Residential Architecture Awards 2023. Situated in Tainan, Humei Redevelopment Zone, Flora Chateau derives from two opposite aspects- vertically and horizontally, putting two contradictory aspects together colliding intensively first and fusing perfectly later. With the space (the balconies with boards) extending horizontally and the tree growing vertically, the whole building becomes more interesting and facilitative for ventilation and shading as the vegetation filters the air and dust. Flora Chateau has driven its name from planting a large amount of greenery, making a lively atmosphere with a sensitive reflection by highlighting the flow of the wind and the shift of light and shadow, embedding a sense of natural landscapes in human living. For instance, the ceiling windows offer a panorama without any disturbance, reflecting the changes in trees and shadows as time goes by. Coated with white paints in correspondence with the lightweight modules, it is not only a sensitive reflection of the movement of lights but also a careful consideration of Taiwan’s geography location on the seismic zone. What’s more, taking sustainability into account as well, recyclable materials such as the great use of aluminum and glass bring out the corresponding relationship between the environment and the trees.

As mentioned, the white cortex coating of the building is conducive to the richness of the shadows that play over it and the facade of the building frame in the sunlight. The variability of the light projection from east to west is now visible to human eyes. We apply the Chinese philosophy of “Yin and Yang” and traditional Chinese “Feng Shui” to the architecture, making the architecture an attractive appearance and enriching meaningful connotations. Collided with the brightness of the building itself, the swaying oak trees and green maples in the yards balance the space with a vivid waver of the shadow as the sun rises from the East every morning. While in the afternoon, the shadow of the plants saves energy for the building, creating a place for both humanity and nature to live peacefully and harmoniously together.

The outline of the building is drawn with the extension of the horizontal windows with metal decorations and KIKUSUI coating, while the use of color represents the vertical and horizontal disparity. The intertwined arrangement of the geometry construction and the retracted columns make the three-dimensional space a perfect zone for people to enjoy seasonal changes indoors and the appearance outdoors. In addition to the appearance, the balconies are staggered to make sure the privacy of the residents, without worrying to be disturbed by neighbors. The landscape extends vertically to create a broader view, as a symbol of living positively and thrivingly. The outer cantilever beam frame of the building makes the project more modern and liter. We hope to deliver a concept to the Asian: a house is more than just an everyday luxurious material comfort but a place to internalize our souls. It is a place for spiritual enrichment instead of material enslavement.

“Feng Shui” is a fundamental role in Chinese architecture. However, in the traditional Asian concept, people value the philosophy by maximizing the interior space with luxurious decorations. Keeping the balance of nature in mind, we decided to do otherwise in this project by combing the “Yin and Yang” concept, another great value in traditional Asian society. We integrate living space with the natural environment, bringing the idea of “Feng Shui” out to the entire architecture instead just the interior. A space where less is more is created and designed to bring our clients back to nature and live in harmony with ecology.

Project Details
Firm
Chain10 Architecture & Interior Design Institute

Architect
Keng-Fu Lo

Project Name
Flora Chateau

Category
Housing Built

Project Location
Tainan City

Team
Chain10 Architecture & Interior Design Institute

Country
Taiwan

Photography ©Credit
©Moooten Studio / Qimin Wu

Space is an important link between people and the environment. A good environment should be designed encompassing architecture and interior design. Consistent design and the integration of internal and external space can achieve a perfect living symbiosis. It is our hope to create buildings that will bring life closer to nature and allow users feel the beauty brought about by nature.