Peace Palace

The clientele of this kind of luxury apartment complex generally have successful careers and a high standard of living. They also have their own individual interpretation on how to organize their lives. Thus, the provision of a flexible living space was a priority in the floor planning stage. To achieve this, we applied the following strategy.

• Maintain floor plan integrity.
• Arrange all the structural columns on the periphery.
• Locate the bathrooms and utility spaces on the periphery.
• Reserve space for piping within each outer wall.
• Allow natural light to enter evenly on three sides.

Consistency represents inner balance. The symmetrical central axis in the floor plan recalls the rules of classical aesthetics. The neo-classical style, and its implicit emphasis on harmony are spontaneously referenced in the following design elements.

• A façade composed of 3 vertical sections.
• An enlarged base with long and narrow proportioned openings.
• The expression of arch and the random patterning of stone.
• We endeavored to accent the detail of each corner and the thickness of the stone cladding in order to reflect the consistency of our design concept.  Moreover, the symmetrical floor construction ensures sufficient earthquake resistance.

We set out to define real needs and deep values; to evolve a design from the initial concept that still adheres to relevant regulations; to re-deliberate the space layer, the dimensions and the proportions.

• Usually, the water tower is placed at the top of a building.  However, we changed the function of this space to become a sky lounge. The idea is to emphasize that high-rise buildings should be designed first and foremost for the users.
• The public space is of a monumental scale to form an inspired feeling of eternity.
• Adjust the height and width of the indoor doors and windows to correspond with the higher and larger space proportion.

Spacious does not only mean the actual size of the space, more importantly, it connotes how the space impresses itself on the user. Thus, we tried to create an obvious character for each space—to distinguish spatial hierarchy through transition, the compression of space, and the differentiation of functionality. This is how the impression of depth and spatial layering is created.

• Design the elevator lobby, the front gate and the postern gate, as thresholds of spatial transition.
• Provide a unique and tranquil hallway along with individualized restrooms for guests.
• Completely separate the living room from the more private spaces.
• Situate a transitional hallway in front of the bedrooms and rest room.

We conclude by citing two celebrated dictums of Renzo Piano:

「Architecture is a service.」

「Architects are people who know how to make houses for people.」