London Design Gold

2025

Urban Quietude

Entrant Company

smt design

Category

Architectural Design - High Rise Buildings

Client's Name

SHIN RUENN GROUP

Country / Region

Taiwan

This architectural project is thoughtfully situated in a vibrant locale where urban functionality gracefully intertwines with the beauty of natural landscapes. It offers the distinct advantage of being “close to the bustle yet not far from nature,” creating a unique living experience. At the heart of this design lies the concept of “contextual integration,” which skillfully transforms the abundant native greenery surrounding the site into an architectural language. In doing so, it elevates the natural scenery, making it an essential part of the overall composition. Embracing a minimalist philosophy, the designer championed the principle that less is more. By focusing on three critical elements—rhythm, proportion, and material texture—the design not only introduces the purity of nature into the urban fabric but also highlights the unique character of this community within the neighborhood.



The development of a large-scale site presents a unique challenge that involves skillfully balancing the intimate feel of human scale with the broader dynamics of urban scale. To address this, the design embraces a thoughtfully crafted courtyard layout that fosters a welcoming sense of enclosure and community. Simultaneously, it incorporates visual corridors and green axes, which enhance natural lighting, improve ventilation, and provide stunning scenic views. This innovative concept revitalizes the essence of traditional courtyards, merging it seamlessly with contemporary architectural language. In doing so, it establishes a meaningful dialogue between the imagery of Eastern settlements and the sleek forms of modern high-rises.

Moreover, the external facade design draws inspiration from successful vertical segmentation techniques seen in prominent international residential projects. This strategic simplification of the towers' mass effectively diminishes their imposing presence, allowing them to blend harmoniously into the skyline. Featuring clean lines, natural stone, and warm-toned metals, the facade artfully interacts with light and shadow, creating a visually striking and layered effect. At the street level, the emphasis shifts toward transparency and connectivity. With inviting transparent facades and lush greenery, the design cultivates a pedestrian-friendly environment that encourages positive interactions between the development and its surrounding neighborhoods. This thoughtful approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also promotes a vibrant community atmosphere.

Credits

Shang Ming Jerry Tseng
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