Ya-Yuan Design, Shanghefa Development Receives the Golden A' Design Award for Urban Clouds Congregate Housing in Architecture, Building and Structure Design

The Work

Project

Urban Clouds Congregate Housing

Function

Congregate Housing

Category

Architecture, Building and Structure Design

Discipline

Spatial Design

Industry

Architecture

Colors

Light Gray, Dim Gray, Gray, Gainsboro and Dark Slate Gray

Images

5

Client

Ya-Yuan Interior Design Service Co

The Recognition

Laureate

Ya-Yuan Design, Shanghefa Development

Country

Taiwan (China)

Recognition

Golden A' Design Award

Edition

2024 - 2025

Design ID

#164535

Credits

Team

Feng-Huang Pan, Anson Chen, Chun-Yao Hu, Jun-Kai Wang

Image Credits

OS studio, Rex Chu

Design Details

Unique Properties

The roof design of this project is a key feature, capturing the beauty of drifting clouds through a play of space and light. Using parametric methods, the cloud's three-dimensional form is transformed into a two-dimensional structure, creating varying visual effects throughout the day. The facade incorporates a complex beam and column system, achieving a refined modern architectural image. The first-floor lobby showcases an installation of metal units on the ceiling, visualizing the flow of wind, strengthening the connection with nature, and enhancing the urban experience with a serene atmosphere.

Inspiration

'Urban Clouds,' located in the administrative and cultural district, blends modern architecture with cultural heritage. Situated within a vibrant cultural center and surrounded by expansive green spaces, the project emphasizes a high quality of life and strong cultural characteristics. The designers incorporate modern architectural elements to redefine urban living, creating a visually prominent yet understated residential space. The goal is to craft a grand architectural image that seamlessly harmonizes with the surrounding environment, offering both elegance and functionality.

Research

'URBAN CLOUDS' is a contemporary urban residence that blends natural elements with modern design, offering a lifestyle rather than just a living space. Positioned between the sky and green spaces, it provides residents with a harmonious living experience, combining nature's beauty with the city's cultural essence. The project features three interconnected sections: a lattice design on the top floor, a beam and column system on the midsection, and a breeze-inspired art installation in the lobby, all carefully integrated to enhance urban living and connect with nature.

Challenge

The project presented unique challenges, as it was the team's first exterior design. While typical residential issues like space efficiency and regulations were not a concern, the predetermined floor plan limited flexibility in exterior adjustments. To overcome this, the designers embraced nature as the theme, using Grasshopper to translate the forms of clouds and wind into their design. While digital tools offered creative potential, the true challenge was translating the design into reality, which proved to be more demanding than the conceptual process itself.

Realization and Technology

In terms of material selection, the designers prioritized refinement, followed by brightness. The extensive use of beige-gray marble, with its delicate veining, exudes a warm and gentle quality reminiscent of cloud layers. Complementing this is the silver-glimmering small-scale glazed wall tiles, which add a touch of starlight-like sparkle. Visually, the clean and clear lines, paired with the transparent glass, establish a harmonious play of light and shadow, enhancing the building's contours and creating a bright, warm, and textured living environment.

Operation and Interaction

To bring a 'breeze' into the interior, the designers created an art installation in the lobby, evoking floating clouds and connecting the building with the city. This design allows people to feel the gentle breeze and witness the dynamic clouds, brightening the space and strengthening the connection to nature. At night, calibrated lighting enhances the building's charm, providing a cozy atmosphere while highlighting architectural features. This lighting ensures the building remains welcoming and elegant, standing out in its surroundings even after dark.

Project Duration and Location

The project finished in December 2023 in Taiwan.

Specifications

The site spans 1,078 square meters, with a 756-square-meter building rising 15 stories. The exterior design takes a grand yet understated approach, with two volumes positioned at the front and rear to reduce the mass and add layers, enhancing the building's approachability. The interior layout is thoughtfully crafted for smooth flow and modern living needs. Every detail complies with building regulations, achieving a perfect balance of functionality and aesthetics, creating a space that is both efficient and visually appealing.

Keywords

Clouds, Breeze, Natural Elements, Green Space, Environmentally Friendly Building Materials, Humanistic Education.