The Lattice Zhishan Residences: Timeless Luxury Living in Taipei by Neri&Hu Design and Research Office

Located in the culturally layered neighborhood of Zhishan in Tianmu, Shilin District, THE LATTICE, Zhishan Residences is a refined residential architecture project that translates local memory into a contemporary, high-end living environment. Designed by Neri&Hu Design and Research Office, the apartment building reflects Taipei’s unique urban condition: where modernity, human scale, and lush subtropical landscapes coexist seamlessly.

Contextual Architecture in Taipei

Taipei is a city shaped by contrasts: glass-clad towers rise alongside arcaded low-rise buildings from the 1970s, while abundant greenery threads through dense urban fabric. Zhishan, historically a gateway for foreign cultures and home to many international schools, embodies a slower, community-oriented lifestyle distinct from the city’s commercial core. Responding to this context, THE LATTICE is conceived as a timeless residential building that balances architectural presence with neighborhood sensitivity.

Massing Strategy and Urban Expression

The building’s massing carefully negotiates zoning setbacks while asserting a strong urban identity. A bold, squared edge anchors the northern corner, reinforcing the building’s presence along the street. In contrast, the southern edge adopts a saw-toothed footprint, softening the volume and improving spatial articulation. This duality allows the project to read as both grounded and dynamic within its surroundings.

The elevation is defined by a precise grid of columns and beams clad in light gray stone. Open corner details introduce visual lightness, emphasizing the structural rhythm while allowing daylight to animate the façade.

The Lattice Façade: Tradition Reinterpreted

Within each structural frame, an inverted catenary arch-shaped metal screen in a warm copper tone encloses balconies and layers the glazing behind. This architectural screen draws inspiration from the traditional “flower grid” window screens found across older Taiwanese buildings. Scaled up and reimagined with refined detailing and luxurious materiality, the lattice becomes both a functional shading device and a cultural signifier.

The interplay between stone structure and metallic screen creates a nuanced dialogue: masculine and feminine, historic and modern, cool and warm, resulting in a façade that is expressive yet disciplined, decorative yet tectonic.

Interior Architecture and Material Continuity

Inside, Neri&Hu extend the architectural narrative through archetypal forms and tactile materials. The arrival sequence unfolds into a double-height arched lobby, clad in warm gray terrazzo that continues seamlessly into the mailbox area, lift lobby, and resident lounge. A custom pendant installation, crafted from bronze and hand-blown glass, adds a layer of artisanal refinement and soft illumination.

Furniture in black walnut timber, paired with bronze accents and neutral textiles, reinforces a calm, residential atmosphere while maintaining a sense of understated luxury. The interior palette is restrained yet rich, prioritizing longevity and sensory depth.

Communal Living and Rooftop Amenities

On the second floor, a small residents’ library overlooks the lounge below. Its wide arch proportions subtly reference the arcaded architecture common in Taipei’s older neighborhoods, strengthening the project’s connection to local typologies.

The rooftop is conceived as an extension of communal living, offering a gym, outdoor kitchenette, event space, yoga platform, pet area, and intimate seating nooks. Surrounded by lush planting, these amenities frame expansive views toward Yangming Mountain, enhancing daily life through nature, wellness, and shared experience.

A Contemporary Residential Landmark

With a total area of 8,485 square meters, THE LATTICE, Zhishan Residences exemplifies contextual residential architecture in Taiwan, one that respects cultural memory while embracing contemporary expression. Through its disciplined massing, expressive façade, and carefully crafted interiors, the project delivers a sophisticated model for urban living rooted in place, materiality, and timeless design values.

All photographs are works of  Studio Millspace