A White House House is a meticulously renovated three-story residence located in a traditional Shanghai lane, exemplifying contemporary architectural adaptation while preserving historical essence. Originally constructed in 1947, this 5.5-meter-wide and 15.2-meter-deep structure underwent a transformative renovation by designer Liu Kai, earning recognition with a Golden A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design category. The design philosophy centers on creating a harmonious living space that celebrates the interplay between light, verticality, and spatial fluidity. The renovation's cornerstone features include a reimagined central staircase with strategic skylights, forming a light-filled vertical core that unifies all three levels. The ground floor incorporates a semi-opened area that deliberately blurs indoor-outdoor boundaries, while the integrated living-dining room and kitchen create a cohesive family gathering space. Notable architectural elements include a thoughtfully designed courtyard with provision for a growing tree, symbolizing the temporal aspect of domestic life. The material palette combines metal plate, stoving varnish, felt, art paint, and punched plate, creating a sophisticated aesthetic that respects the building's heritage while introducing contemporary elements. The second floor features cleverly concealed storage solutions and seamlessly integrated children's spaces, while the master bedroom preserves the original slope structure, demonstrating a careful balance between preservation and innovation. This award-winning project, completed between May 2016 and November 2017, represents a significant achievement in residential renovation, addressing challenges of natural lighting and structural integrity while creating a space that embodies both functionality and emotional resonance.
residential renovation, contemporary architecture, Shanghai lane house, spatial design, natural lighting, vertical architecture
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