Silver Winner of the International Excellence Awards 2026

Chrysalis · Ember

Interior

Residential Living and Dining Spaces

Completed / Built / Company

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Architect / Designer:

U KAM WENG

Studio:

How Design

Design Team:

How Design

U KAM WENG

Country:

China

This project is thoughtfully designed to cultivate a sense of security and warmth for the homeowners’ four children, especially considering their frequent travels. At its core, the design embraces the concept of “cocooning,” skillfully introducing elegant curved forms throughout the interior. This innovative approach emphasizes envelopment and protection, transforming the living space from rigidly compartmentalized areas into continuous, flowing surfaces that evoke the softness of clouds. Furthermore, the seamless integration of ceilings and walls shapes a gentle and flowing aesthetic that minimizes structural oppression. As a result, this open layout not only promotes physical connectivity but also fosters emotional order and balance. Ultimately, the design creates a nurturing environment that strengthens family bonds, allowing each member to feel secure and at home.

The interior exudes a sophisticated minimalist aesthetic, characterized by a harmonious palette of white, beige, and gray. This serene foundation is beautifully complemented by rich dark wood accents and elegant stone textures, which together infuse the space with visual stability and depth. Moreover, the thoughtful application of linear and indirect lighting throughout the home enhances its ambiance, creating a tranquil, stress-free environment. Soft light strips delicately highlight the contours of curved surfaces, adding an inviting warmth to the design. In addition to its striking visual appeal, the space incorporates cleverly concealed storage solutions that are seamlessly integrated into the overall layout. This thoughtful approach not only maximizes functionality but also maintains the clean and orderly aesthetic that defines the home, ensuring that every element serves both form and purpose.

The shared living areas are beautifully centered around the living and dining room, where a gracefully curved ceiling not only enhances the sense of spaciousness but also elegantly guides the flow of movement, evoking the natural serenity of cloud formations. To further promote children’s visual health and accommodate a variety of activities, a cleverly concealed projection system replaces the traditional TV wall. This innovative approach not only reduces reliance on screens but also shifts the focus of the public space towards enriching family interactions. Moreover, the hallway has been transformed into a dynamic living space that embodies a sense of time and continuity. With steel brackets expertly embedded in the ceiling, the display of homemade noodles adds a personal touch, converting everyday moments into a captivating landscape that reflects the beauty of daily life. In this way, the design harmoniously blends function with artistry, inviting all who enter to engage with their surroundings in a meaningful way.

How Design

How Design was established in 2023. We hold the conviction that spatial design is fundamentally inspired by life and seeks to reinterpret the inherent beauty of design through this foundation. By approaching space from an emotional perspective, we introduce the concept of “Gao Yidu” — literally meaning “one degree higher” — a subtle elevation in perception that infuses environments with warmth and enables them to convey their own narratives. Our mission is to instill every space with a distinct sense of warmth and soul.