Shanhai Residence is a minimal home located in Guangzhou, China, designed by Ke Hui, Chen Zhichao, Wu Xiaoqian. In the heart of Guangzhou, a rare urban oasis offers breathtaking natural surroundings to a well-traveled couple who sought to create a sanctuary within their city dwelling. Nestled amid lush mountains, the Shanhai Residence provides an idyllic haven for its residents, who desired a space to showcase their art collection while blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living. The homeowners, a couple with a keen appreciation for art and design, were struck by the serene environment surrounding their apartment complex. “It’s rare to find such natural beauty in Guangzhou,” they shared.

This inspired the design focus on incorporating the environment, aiming to create a comfortable, relaxed, and high-quality home that seamlessly integrates the surrounding landscape. Although the original layout was well-structured with three bedrooms and a high utilization rate, the designers sought to tailor the space to the couple’s unique lifestyle. As the couple spends most of their time alone at home with occasional visits from friends and family, they did not require all three bedrooms. The original kitchen also had insufficient working space for the couple’s culinary pursuits. To address these issues, the design team reconfigured the space while maintaining the load-bearing walls.

The kitchen was transformed into a more efficient U-shaped layout, improving its usability. A three-section bathroom was introduced, featuring separate areas for washing, toilet, and shower. The original small vanity area was expanded, and additional storage options were added. The northwestern bedroom was integrated into the master bedroom, creating a walk-in closet and dressing area. The original master bathroom was transformed into a soaking tub and backup toilet area, elevating the comfort of the suite.

The eastern wall of the third bedroom was removed, allowing natural light to fill the space and offering a flexible area for guests. The design team prioritized functionality and natural materials, eschewing overly ornate techniques in favor of a more minimalist approach. The result is a harmonious fusion of indoor and outdoor spaces, where the natural landscape serves as a stunning backdrop for daily life. The Shanhai Residence embodies the essence of minimalist living while catering to the unique needs of its discerning occupants.

Photography by ALPDRI-Yexuan