Realised by local firm Degree Design, this apartment in Tainan embraces dark hues in a variety of materials and textures, creating a soothing atmosphere that inspires relaxation. Here studio founder Chih-Hao Tseng tells us more

Design Anthology: Can you tell us about the clients and their lifestyle?

Chih-Hao Tseng: I met the clients through a friend. They live in the north of Taiwan and come down to Tainan on the weekends and holidays.

What’s unique about the building and the location?

The 132-square-metre apartment is located on the 22nd floor of a building in Tainan’s urban area. The layout is open and the windows allow for views of the canal flowing into the sea and of the sunset in the evening.

How did you approach the project — what design references did you try to incorporate into the space?

We wanted to create a home where the clients can laze about on the couch or on the windowsill, or relax while watching the flowing canal.

The space breaks away from a traditional framework both in terms of layout and colours. We incorporated an array of black and dark materials as the focal point of the design, creating a calm, pleasant atmosphere. The common area features simple partitions and a two-way sofa, which makes the living room feel open. The cabinet that separates the common and the private areas conceals the bed, which gives the entire space a more open, multifunctional layout. As the light and shadows change during the day, the atmosphere in the space changes too.

Please tell us a little about the material choices space.

We used a lot of black, in the paint, cement paint and wood, and plenty of stainless steel and natural stone throughout the space.

Please tell us about some of the custom pieces for the space.

The sofa, carpets, curtains, wooden floors and dining table were all custom made.

Do you have a favourite element or design detail in the interiors?

I like the natural texture of the wood and the coolness of the stainless steel — it creates a contrast that brings a really warm yet modern feel to the space.

Images / Hey!Cheese