AD ARCHITECTURE adds theatrical elements within minimal apartment interior in china

AD ARCHITECTURE has renovated a 300 m2 single-storey apartment, located in shantou, china. the project draws inspiration from the visual presentation of performing on stage, generating a white, serene space as ‘stage’ for the residents. various details and dotted bright colors were featured in order to create dramatic visual effects, which highlight the stylish character of the contemporary house. 

all images courtesy of AD ARCHITECTURE

this residential project by AD ARCHITECTURE showcases simplicity and minimalism throughout the interior. ‘I’ve always been trying to apply the principle of subtraction to design practices, so as to accentuate people’s sensory experiences in the space‘ principal architect xie peihe explains. the simplistic color palette, which mainly consists of black and white, fully embodies a restrained aesthetic. large areas of the space are blank, generate a tranquil and inclusive atmosphere. in this space dominated by calming hues, the red B&B chair and the blue cappellini peacock armchair appear serene and elegant. restrained as it looks, there is something extremely powerful, which reminds us to restrain lust and emotion, keep the soul pure and live a minimalist life. 

at the early design phase, the architects chose functionalism over formalism, deciding to incorporate storage and other functions into the space, in a hidden manner. in this way, in order to reveal its most simplistic state, which well fits into the occupants’ meticulous attitude towards life. the free plan and geometric shapes generate different space combinations, to showcase the residents’ personalities. the design seeks to evoke the interaction between people and the space, and convey the fundamental spiritual core of the residence via a minimalist approach.

as the overall interior, the living room area sticks to the logic of minimalism. characterized by lightweight textures and light gray hues, the carpet marks off a relatively converged area, which coordinates the relatively loose state of the space. the minotti fabric sofa matches with the similar colored carpet, creating a cozy, relaxed environment. in the dining room, the original wall was turnt into floor-to-ceiling glass, to connect the interior to the outside world. a lightweight ultra-clear glass cabinet hangs in the air, which combines functionality and aesthetics. in addition, molteni & C dining chairs provide a comfortable dining experience.

in the bedroom, white walls and the black floor are perfectly combined, which shows contrast while at the same time generating a simplistic visual impression and a cozy ambience. when gentle music plays and the curtain opens automatically in the morning, the occupants will embrace the outdoor river view and start a new day with a pleasant mood. the bathroom and bedroom are connected into a whole, which appears expansive and clean. this home breaks spatial boundaries, incorporates eclectic thinking, restrained aesthetics and rational logic, and evokes emotions, which creates an intimate stage for its occupants.

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: myrto katsikopoulou | designboom