Urban cavern

Building upon post-pandemic public health concerns, the project redefines residential living by emphasizing spatial openness, air circulation, and natural light. The aim was to create a home that offers both protection and psychological relief, combining the solidity of a cavern with the warmth and tactility of natural materials. This approach reconsiders how urban apartments can balance seclusion and connectivity within dense city environments.

 

Design Philosophy

Situated in the dense urban context of Taipei, the apartment becomes a microcosm of retreat within the city. Natural light enters through filtered openings, while ventilation paths ensure fresh air circulation throughout the interior. The project embodies the notion of balance between protection and exposure, redefining how urban residences can nurture both physical and emotional well-being.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The residence is organized as a continuous flowing space where boundaries between rooms dissolve. Curved walls and interconnected volumes encourage natural movement and visual continuity. The central living area acts as the core, connecting secondary spaces such as the kitchen, dining area, and bedrooms. Through this fluid organization, the apartment achieves both privacy and openness without relying on rigid partitions.

Each functional zone was designed to respond to daily rituals while maintaining flexibility. The living area, dining, and kitchen form an interconnected communal zone, while private areas are subtly defined through level changes and lighting. Hidden storage systems and integrated furniture enhance efficiency without visual distraction. Underfloor heating and acoustic treatments improve comfort and environmental quality.

 

 

Material Palette

A restrained selection of materials defines the project’s sensory experience. Smooth plaster surfaces, terrazzo flooring, and curved joinery create a continuous tactile flow. Stone, timber, and bronze accents contrast with soft fabrics and diffused lighting. This material palette reinforces the idea of an ‘urban cavern’ – a sanctuary shaped by texture, reflection, and silence.