Years is a minimal home located in Chongqing, China, designed by MUKA Architects. The profound connection between art and emotion serves as the foundation for this innovative home renovation project. Emphasizing resource conservation, the design team has carefully preserved the original structure while enhancing the living spaces with meticulous attention to detail. The result is a captivating blend of minimalist aesthetic and art gallery atmosphere that reflects the homeowner’s unique sensibilities. Central to the home’s design is the concept of balance and simplicity. Drawing inspiration from traditional Chinese gardens, the entrance features a luminous film that mimics natural light, setting the tone for the rest of the living space. A large parallel sliding door in the porch area harmoniously integrates walk-in storage, while a concealed door in the living room leads to a private area adorned with intriguing cable paintings in the corridor.

The private area’s design embraces restraint and simplicity, providing a serene space for relaxation and contemplation. The home’s aesthetic, described as an “unfinished art museum,” celebrates the homeowner’s extensive collection of artwork, which ranges from Xie Xiaodong’s floor wood carvings to Chen Guangyao’s paperweight sculptures. Additionally, the space showcases a diverse array of objects, including Japanese copperware, medieval Northern European furniture, and African milk stools. Throughout the home, warm oak tones complement the carefully curated art and antiques, creating a rich tapestry of cultural narratives that span across time and geography. The refined living space allows the homeowner and their guests to fully appreciate the emotional resonance of each piece, as well as the stories that accompany them.

Photography by Amber Li