MOOI TIMELESS Studio is a minimalist space located in Zhengzhou, China, designed by MOOI TIMELESS. The designers have curated their workspace as an idealistic personal museum, a fitting home for their collections, with the narrative of the space centered around their own experiences and aesthetics. A notable addition is a main light in the living room, acquired from an exhibition in Milan, created by Ingo Maurer, the “poet of light”. Maurer’s piece, made of thin, semi-transparent Japanese paper, invites personalization, allowing owners to inscribe drawings or phrases, thus participating in the design process. The team plans to incorporate sketches, photos of the team, and project images, aligning with Maurer’s original intent while documenting their growth.

Their design philosophy extends to the appreciation of specific objects and experiences, which not only recount pleasant memories but also serve as reminders of their initial passion for design. Their space is a physical manifestation of self-exploration and presentation, where material and spiritual realms coexist, drawing inspiration from the past while looking forward to the future. Despite the natural limitations of their site, with less than ideal environmental conditions and tight spacing between buildings, they have innovatively brought a sense of nature indoors. Through the use of soft lighting, warm wood, comfortable textiles, coarse pottery, flickering flames, and growing plants, they create a natural ambiance that transcends the lack of physical outdoor elements.

One of the most captivating features of their space is the abundant natural light achieved through negotiation for larger windows. Light, an essential material, shapes the emotional experience within the space, fostering a connection between people and their surroundings. This interplay enhances the feeling of temporal passage, offering a tranquil retreat from the bustling world. The spatial layout is straightforward, with the water bar, restroom, and storage area consolidated to define the space. The office area and meeting space for the principals are distinct yet interact seamlessly, facilitating efficient work scenarios. This clear spatial organization, along with the potential for versatility in use, underscores the studio’s endless possibilities.