Imperfect Apartment Created Using Wabi Sabi Principles

This ultra modern and refined residence is created totally according to the principles of wabi sabi

This ultra-modern and refined residence is created totally according to the principles of wabi-sabi

Designed by Nelson Chow of Hong Kong-based architecture practice NCDA, “The Imperfect Residence” is a recently refurbished Hong Kong one-bedroom apartment. The title nevertheless succinctly references the designer’s guiding light, namely the ancient Japanese philosophy Wabi Sabi which is based on finding beauty in the imperfect and valuing simplicity.

Translated into the language of interior design, these principles have produced a residence of understated elegance and contemporary minimalism where everything is seamlessly integrated into the building fabric and where bold geometries are combined with materials in their natural unfinished state.

Sticking with the Japanese origins of Wabi Sabi-informed interior design, the apartment is configured as a ceremonial three-step journey that takes you from Sculpture Garden, to the Sanctuary, to the Altar. Connected by darker passages, the three principal spaces are airy, and bright, holistically designed as concise compositions.

Entering through a dark timber-clad vestibule, the sculpture garden-inspired living room features smooth hand-brushed plaster walls, parquet flooring inlaid with marble and oxidized metal pieces. Opening one of the wall folding panels lining the marble riser reveals the entrance to the Sanctuary. Reached through a timber-clad elevated platform inspired by the concept of genkan – a traditional Japanese entryway which separates the outside world – the sleeping area is dominated by a large window that illuminates a harmonious assembly of geometries and materials. Another hidden door, this one at the end of the elevated passage, leads to the Altar, namely the dressing room and master bathroom. Take a look at how these spaces are organized and get inspired by this unique design!

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The dining space features a unique table with a stone tabletop, leather chairs and a bold chandelier

The dining space features a unique table with a stone tabletop, leather chairs and a bold chandelier

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The living room features refined contemporary furniture, a cool imperfect table and heavy curtains

The living room features refined contemporary furniture, a cool imperfect table and heavy curtains

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One of the walls is fully covered with panels that can be moved

One of the walls is fully covered with panels that can be moved

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One part of the panels hides a TV unit

One part of the panels hides a TV unit

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The second part is a door to the next space, which is a principle of wabi sabi

The second part is a door to the next space, which is a principle of wabi sabi

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The contemporary bedroom is clad with wood, there are bulbs and an upholstered bed

The contemporary bedroom is clad with wood, there are bulbs and an upholstered bed

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Here you can also see a desk space by the window

Here you can also see a desk space by the window

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The bathroom is done with a tub covered with stone and a stone stink plus gorgeous marble pillars

The bathroom is done with a tub covered with stone and a stone stink plus gorgeous marble pillars

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Simplicity and minimalism are principles of wabi sabi, too, and this entryway shows that

Simplicity and minimalism are principles of wabi sabi, too, and this entryway shows that

Source: yatzer