Run Apartment

Run Apartment is a minimal apartment located in Changsha, China, designed by Hooray Lab. A profound architectural narrative unfolds through an ingenious play of concealment and revelation – a design philosophy that mirrors the ancient Chinese aesthetic principle of “holding a pipa lute half-covering the face.” This reference to the classic Tang dynasty imagery isn’t merely poetic; it fundamentally shapes how the space breathes and flows.

The designers began with a radical gesture: stripping away nearly all non-load-bearing walls, creating a canvas for what would become a masterful study in spatial choreography. The resulting layout eschews the conventional notion of rooms as discrete boxes, instead embracing what the designers call a “circulating route” principle – where public spaces flow in a triangular pattern while private areas radiate outward. This circulation creates not just physical movement, but a mesmerizing dance of light that follows inhabitants through their daily rhythms.

At the heart of the design lies a sophisticated interplay between three major public zones: the living room, study, and kitchen-dining area. These spaces are defined not by walls but by floor-to-ceiling storage units that serve as both functional elements and subtle spatial dividers. The effect is remarkably similar to traditional Chinese screen paintings, where views are partially obscured to create intrigue and draw the viewer deeper into the space.

The material palette speaks in whispers rather than shouts: predominantly white surfaces create a canvas for the verdant garden views visible through high windows – nature becomes the apartment’s most striking “soft decoration.” This is punctuated thoughtfully with black accents, stainless steel elements, and carefully chosen wood tones, creating a serene atmosphere that feels both contemporary and timeless.

Perhaps the most innovative element is the designers’ approach to flexibility. The living room, for instance, incorporates mobile furniture arrangements and hidden power outlets within cabinetry, allowing the space to transform based on daily needs. This adaptability extends to the study area, where a light film ceiling installation mimics natural daylight, creating what the designers describe as a “romantic atmosphere” for work and study, even in an area distant from windows.

The post Run Apartment appeared first on Leibal.