Shangri-Life is a residential building designed to be a secluded paradise hidden in the city, a miniature utopia for the sophisticated. The design prioritizes privacy and serenity, using greenery, a calming ambiance, and eco-friendly materials to create a sanctuary where the occupants can lead healthy and relaxing lifestyles.

At the foyer is a wooden bench made from a piece of leftover material, combined with the circular window and the wall designs, the foyer serves as the transition into another world. Upon entering the house, the guests are greeted with the calming atmosphere of the tearoom. The position of the room not only creates a welcoming feel, but also extra privacy through the division of space by usage. The guests can be received in the tearoom without going upstairs into the living spaces.

The second-floor common area fosters a different style from the first floor yet still maintains the theme of tranquility. The darker aesthetics presents a refined sense of luxury, an expression of sophistication.

The key feature of Shangri-Life is the sense of nature brought by the greenery. The verdant beauty in every balcony transforms the house into a utopian location hidden deep in the woods, the vegetation also increases privacy and blocks out harmful particles, creating a healthy and peaceful environment. The bathroom is turned into a serene hot spring in nature by the landscaping outside, the hinoki wood ceiling gives off natural aroma, completing this perfect spot for relaxation.

Contrary to the darker and more masculine style of the common areas, the bedroom facilitates a brighter and gentler vibe. The design of the wall behind the bed creates an interesting visual effect using light and shadow, preventing the possible dullness when using all white coloring. The unique steel sculpture of lotus leaves ties the spaces together with its connection to the theme of nature and the sophistication of artful mastery.

For the house to truly become an arcadian hideout, the occupants’ health must be preserved along with their comfort. The balcony on the second floor provides generous fresh air, and the large canopy prevents excessive sun exposure. FENIX panels are installed on the kitchen walls for its fireproof and nontoxic qualities, as well as the materials’ ease of maintenance.

The designer opts for eco-friendly PU faux stone panels instead of real stone for its light weight and longevity; in addition, carbon footprints are reduced without the mining of real stones. The tearoom features large usage of diatomaceous-earth-based paint, its abilities to absorb car exhaust coming from the garage and control the humidity of the room are greatly favored. This green material serves as the first barrier to the outside world, setting the stage for the hidden paradise.