Bronze A' Design Award Winner 2025
Picture yourself entering a serene contemporary living space positioned at considerable elevation with commanding water views, beginning with overall orientation: this interior environment spans approximately twelve to fifteen feet in width as visible, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows along two walls that flood the space with soft diffused daylight the color of pale sky blue suggesting either morning or overcast conditions, cool and gentle rather than harsh or dramatic. Scanning from left to right across the composition, the left wall presents an expansive window wall framed by charcoal black metal mullions creating a grid of rectangular glass panels through which pale blue water and distant hazy shoreline appear, the glass surface smooth and reflective catching subtle glints of light, while before this window hangs the space's most striking element: a circular chair or swing suspended from the ceiling by a single silver metal rod, this sculptural seating element constructed from pale blonde wood bent into a continuous loop perhaps four feet in diameter, its interior cavity cushioned with cream-colored sheepskin or similar plush textile that appears soft as a cloud and warm to touch despite the cool surrounding palette. Moving toward the room's center, the floor appears to be covered in large-format pale stone tiles smooth and cool underfoot, their surface subtly mottled with faint veining, supporting a carefully arranged seating area comprising low-profile built-in platforms upholstered in light gray-beige fabric that would feel like fine linen against skin, these platforms adorned with several cushions in varying shades of charcoal and silver exhibiting different textures from smooth velvet-like surfaces to more coarsely woven materials. Between seating elements rest two rounded sculptural tables perhaps two feet in diameter, crafted from what appears to be pale taupe stone or concrete-like material with a smooth matte finish cool to touch, their surfaces supporting artful arrangements of clear glass vessels including a tall black ceramic vase with delicate dried branches, a martini-style glass catching light, and decorative spherical objects in silver and transparent glass that would feel smooth and weighted in the palm. The back wall visible through the center window frames features white-painted surfaces and glimpses of another windowed space beyond, creating layered depth. Progressing rightward, the right wall presents a textured surface in pale silvery-gray with visible horizontal linear striations that would feel subtly ridged like fine corduroy under fingertips, this wall interrupted by recessed rectangular niches fitted with white horizontal shelving illuminated from within by warm amber LED strips casting gentle golden glow, these illuminated showcases displaying an edited collection of glassware including tall drinking glasses, rounded vessels, and amber-toned bottles arranged with museum-like precision. The ceiling overhead is pristine white and perfectly smooth, punctuated by narrow rectangular recessed lighting fixtures creating pools of focused illumination below. The overall atmosphere feels hushed and contemplative, suggesting the quietude of elevated spaces removed from street-level bustle, the air seeming still and temperature-controlled at comfortable coolness, with the expansive windows allowing distant water views to function as living artwork constantly shifting with atmospheric and light conditions throughout the day.
This project is inspired by the fusion of nature and leisurely living, aiming to create a unique family space that offers a 270 degree river view while maintaining a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. By incorporating elements of a cafe, the design enhances the living space with social, gathering, and leisure functions. Whether enjoying afternoon tea or unwinding on a swing, it brings more creativity and vitality to everyday life.