Her and Its House by Atelier Yipan: A Harmonious Blend of Work and Relaxation

Her and Its House, designed by Atelier Yipan, is a thoughtful residential project located in Pudong, China. This 50 m² apartment was crafted for a busy surgeon who desired a seamless balance between work, relaxation, and companionship with her beloved dog. The design carefully considers her demanding schedule, ensuring that the space provides a serene environment where she can focus on work while also enjoying moments of relaxation.

Space Planning and Layout

The apartment is divided into four distinct zones, each crafted to serve multiple purposes:

1. Work Area: A large, comfortable workbench designed for desk work and medical research.

2. Rest Area: A cozy space that offers tranquility after long working hours.

3. Bath Space: A spacious bathroom designed for ultimate relaxation.

4. Cooking Area: A fully equipped kitchen that allows for stress-free meal preparation.

The architects integrated a circular pathway that connects these spaces, adding fluidity and continuity to the home. This pathway also enhances the living experience by creating a journey through varied ceiling heights and gradual transitions between enclosed and open spaces.

Design Concept: A Fusion of Stability and Openness

To evoke a sense of comfort and stability, Atelier Yipan introduced a cave-like atmosphere with enclosed spaces that provide a strong sense of security. The wooden platform, which doubles as a storage solution, allows the occupant to appreciate the surrounding landscape at different levels. The ceiling height, compressed to 1.90 meters at its highest point, creates an intimate connection with the space, offering a feeling of being enveloped by the environment.

Courtyard as an Open Room

The courtyard is conceived as an open-air room without a roof, surrounded by towering walls that establish a sense of privacy and seclusion. A light pavilion placed within the courtyard enhances this serene atmosphere, reminiscent of the timeless poem:

“Who to sit with? The bright moon, the breeze, and me?”

This outdoor space acts as an island of peace, where the client can escape from daily life and reconnect with nature.

Rituals in Daily Living

The architects emphasized a sense of ritual in daily activities by separating spaces for washing, toileting, and bathing. Every turn within the home corresponds to a unique view, making each corner of the space feel like a new discovery. The washing and dryer machine area serves as the heart of these spaces, reinforcing the idea that mundane tasks can be transformed into mindful rituals.

Materiality and Texture

The use of natural materials like wood and concrete enhances the tactile experience, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Wooden elements not only add warmth but also establish new visual perspectives, connecting the interior with the surrounding greenery.

Blending Architecture with Nature

A defining feature of Her and Its House is its seamless integration with nature. The exterior walls are lined with camphor trees, acting as a natural barrier that shelters the house from the bustling city beyond. This thoughtful approach ensures that the resident enjoys a peaceful, nature-infused living experience while being protected from external distractions.

All photographs are works of Xia Zhi