Qi Yuan Live-Work Space | Suzhou, China

Nature-infused sanctuary

“Walking through winding streets and alleys, tucked between the white walls and grey roof tiles, I can hear the sound of wheels rolling over grey paving stones. Qi Yuan stands before me.”

Sun Yuanliang

In December 2023, designer Sun Yuanliang relocated his studio to a small courtyard residence, which he also uses as a vacation retreat. The name of the residence, Qi Yuan, reflects a poetic vision inspired by classical Chinese culture. In the Ming Dynasty medical text Compendium of Materia Medica, the character “䒻” refers to an herbal medicine. Meanwhile, “屺” originally described a barren mountain. Together, these characters evoke the idea of a symbolic mountain forest -an expression of the aspiration to create a peaceful, nature-infused sanctuary within the urban landscape.

Context and Integration

Located in the ancient city of Suzhou, the residence sits on elevated ground, offering sweeping views from its second-floor windows of the well-preserved rooftops of historic buildings on the city’s west side. From the entrance, the small courtyard resembles a miniature Jiangnan-style garden, with a Moon Cave Gate framing the surrounding greenery. In keeping with the tradition of Suzhou gardens, each door and window is designed to frame the natural scenery, allowing plants to thrive freely with minimal human interference.

Deeper within the property, guests encounter a hidden, larger courtyard. During construction, the natural terrain was subtly reshaped using gathered soil to form gentle gradients, and water was redirected to create a serene pond. This carefully planned landscape exudes a tranquil atmosphere. Reflections of light on the water shift throughout the day, lending different moods to the space. A strong, aged pine tree stands resiliently against the stone wall, surrounded by textured rock formations.

Materials and Custom Structures

Custom-designed wooden grilles are used throughout the residence to soften the architectural presence and enhance spatial layering. These screens filter light, increase privacy, and obstruct views of neighboring structures, allowing for peaceful conversation and contemplation of the scenery.

The courtyard and interior are seamlessly connected. From within the house, expansive views of the garden are unobstructed. Natural light and air circulate freely through the open layout, while the continuity and rhythm of the materials help create a calm, welcoming environment. This design fosters easy movement and a sense of ease. The concept emphasizes the dialogue between old and new, aiming to bridge the gap between architecture and its inhabitants. The goal is to create a sense of connection -between people, space, and time- that nurtures community and belonging.

Furniture and Colors

Minimalist design principles guide the interior, blending architectural elements with narrative-driven spatial compositions. The home is open and integrated, inviting guests to relax -whether lounging on carefully selected sofas or observing the interplay of clouds and tree branches outside the window. Classic furniture pieces underscore a refined yet understated lifestyle, avoiding overt symbolism or self-aggrandizement. The atmosphere encourages a release of cultural excess, allowing the individual to feel part of something larger through their connection with nature.

Colors, forms, materials, and the interaction of light and shadow all draw inspiration from the natural world. These elements change and evolve alongside the human experience, reflecting the designer’s vision of harmony between people and their surroundings.