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Minimalist Living Redefined: Framed Sanctuary's Adaptive Reuse and Award-Winning Design Approach

Framed Sanctuary, designed by architect Chien Hao Tseng with creative direction by Tzu Yu Liu, has been recognized with the Bronze A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award 2025. Located in Taipei, this project transforms a 40-year-old apartment into a serene, minimalist retreat through an innovative interplay of structure, light, and materiality. Drawing inspiration from the Japanese concept of Ma, the design explores the balance between emptiness and form, utilizing a custom 1.5 cm metal frame to define spatial boundaries without the use of traditional walls.

The project's unique approach integrates monochrome materials-black steel, brushed concrete, and warm oak wood-crafted with precision to create spaces that are both structured and calming. Natural daylight is harnessed as a compositional element, casting dynamic shadows and enhancing the sensory experience throughout the 110-square-meter interior. The lightweight steel frame system, engineered to be both visually subtle and structurally robust, allows for open circulation and fluid transitions between living, kitchen, and reading zones, encouraging reflection and daily rituals without physical barriers.

Realized over eight months from November 2023 to July 2024, Framed Sanctuary overcame significant technical challenges, including the seamless integration of ultra-slim steel frames and the optimization of daylight in a previously dim apartment. Extensive prototyping, material stress testing, and spatial behavior studies informed the final design, resulting in a home that not only meets rigorous structural standards but also promotes emotional well-being and spatial clarity. The project stands as a model for adaptive reuse in urban housing, demonstrating how thoughtful design can elevate everyday living and contribute to a more harmonious built environment.

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