Golden A' Design Award Winner 2022
This aerial photograph presents a contemporary residential garden viewed from directly above, revealing a flowing composition of white pathways, dark water, and layered green plantings that spans approximately square format. Beginning in the upper left corner, the spreading canopy of a large deciduous tree dominates nearly one quarter of the composition, its branches extending outward like an organic umbrella over the garden below, the foliage rendered in varied greens from bright yellow-green where sunlight penetrates to deeper forest green in shadowed depths. Moving rightward across the upper edge, additional trees and dense shrub masses create a continuous green border punctuated by glimpses of architectural white elements beyond. The central feature draws immediate attention, a dark reflective pool or water channel that curves through the composition in an elongated S-shape, its surface appearing nearly black like polished obsidian, creating dramatic contrast against all surrounding elements. Hovering over this dark water near the center, a striking crescent-shaped platform in pristine white appears to float, accessible via a series of pale stepping stones that march across the water like a necklace of pearls, cool and smooth to imagine underfoot. The water surface feels still and cool, suggesting the temperature of shade on a warm day. Moving toward the right and lower portions, white concrete terraces curve in rhythmic horizontal bands along the edge of a perfect emerald lawn, the grass appearing soft and dense like velvet carpet, warm where sunlight touches it. Spherical topiary forms in deep green nestle within planting beds, their surfaces appearing clipped and precise, firm to the touch. The overall atmosphere suggests tranquil morning, with soft diffused light creating gentle shadows without harsh contrast.
When the designers first arrived at the site, they were enchanted by the goldenrain tree and camphor preserved there. They planned to reconstruct the site on the basis of preserving the original ecology. The overall design, such as space layout and flow line, kept away from the original trees; highlighted their values and gave them new lives. They strived to intervene in the site in a "humble" way and adapt to local conditions. They used trees to create a forest theater under the urban reinforced concrete.