Between Mist and Mountain

Nestled within the historic mountain town of Jiufen, Taiwan, this renovation project encompasses an aging main house and an elegant freestanding glass pavilion. The original structure, unfortunately plagued by several issues, suffered from limited floor area, persistent water infiltration, invasive tree roots, and a lack of adequate daylight and ventilation. As a result, the once-vibrant living space became confined and stifling.

To address these challenges, the design adopts a contemporary minimalist approach that reinterprets the old house. By thoughtfully restructuring the layout and introducing generous openings, the interior is now flooded with natural light and enhanced airflow. Consequently, this transformation fosters a revitalized living environment, allowing the architecture to harmonize beautifully with Jiufen's unique topography and climate. This engaging interplay between the old and the new creates a space that is not only functional but also deeply resonant with its surroundings.

The ground floor of the main house is elegantly defined by gray stone-patterned tiles and crisp white walls, which together create a bright and soothing public space. The open-plan layout seamlessly integrates the living room, dining area, and kitchen, not only enhancing visual depth but also optimizing spatial efficiency. Furthermore, a formerly dark and enclosed room has been transformed into a stunning open-air courtyard, achieved by removing the roof and incorporating inviting hot and cold soaking pools. When the folding aluminum windows are opened wide, an abundance of natural light and gentle breezes flow through the space, culminating in a tranquil and immersive bathing experience that invites relaxation and serenity.

The elegant staircase ascending to the upper level is adorned with sleek black metal and sophisticated gray glass railings, which not only enhance the visual lightness of the space but also cleverly incorporate concealed storage underneath. As one reaches the loft-style second floor, they are welcomed by the master bedroom, which provides a stunning view of the vibrant public areas below. Moreover, the warm wood flooring beautifully contrasts the minimalist design, infusing the space with an inviting sense of comfort and intimacy.