Penelope Torres Nestled in a high-rise residential building overlooking the picturesque Qinhuai River in Nanjing, lies a unique condominium – a haven for retirement living.
Embracing Change: From Three Beds to One Garden
The owners, a couple on the brink of retirement, sought to reimagine their standard three-bedroom condo into a space conducive to their evolving lifestyle. The vision? A seamless blend of indoor tranquility and outdoor allure. The once enclosed rooms now dissolve into a singular bedroom, aptly termed ‘one garden’.
A Journey Through Tranquility: The Garden Experience
Gone are the linear confines; in their place, a meandering looped circulation invites residents to wander through their own private sanctuary. Each turn reveals a new vista, both inside and out, akin to the immersive experience of a traditional Chinese garden. In an era where home has become the epicenter of life, the significance of such residential sanctuaries cannot be overstated.
Crafting Experiences: Tailored for Retirement
Every facet of the redesign caters to the couple’s desires and emotional needs. A multifunctional living room, reminiscent of a yard, invites activities from somatosensory games to leisurely planting. A dedicated book alley offers respite for quiet reading, while a north-facing bay window provides a serene backdrop of the Qinhuai River for relaxing foot baths.
Design Elements: Blending Nature and Functionality
The living room, a nexus of activity, seamlessly transitions from exterior to interior, mirroring the charm of a traditional front yard. Here, elements of nature – terraces, stones, and pergolas – converge to create an inviting landscape.
Reimagining Space: Fusion of Form and Function
The master bedroom, bathed in sunlight from merged south-facing rooms, embodies tranquility and practicality. The clever integration of separate beds with adjustable backrests ensures uninterrupted sleep, while wardrobe curtains add a touch of openness to the sleeping space.
Inviting Serenity: The Book Alley and Beyond
Stepping into the book alley, one is enveloped in a cocoon of calmness, surrounded by shelves of literary treasures. Natural light filters through windows, seamlessly connecting this sanctuary to the outside world.
Maximizing Views: The North-Facing Vista
The north bay window, commanding panoramic views of Nanjing, underwent a transformation into a cozy seating deck. Beneath its serene exterior lies a stone foot bathtub, offering moments of relaxation amidst breathtaking scenery.
A Feast for the Senses: The Guest Bathroom
Far from mundane, the guest bathroom doubles as a leisure garden path, complete with views of the Qinhuai River. Recycled plank flooring adds warmth and character, elevating the bathing experience to one of indulgence.
Culinary Centerpiece: The Dining Table
At the heart of the home lies the dining table, a symbol of communal gatherings and culinary delights. Its stainless steel surface juxtaposes against warm wooden accents, forming a dynamic centerpiece for family activities.
Sustainable Elegance: Recycled Plank Flooring
In a nod to sustainability, old plank flooring finds new life as integral components of the redesigned home. From ceilings to flooring, each piece tells a story of renewal and reinvention.
In essence, One Room One Garden is more than just a dwelling; it’s a testament to the art of living well in retirement, where nature, functionality, and serenity intertwine to create a harmonious sanctuary.
