Natural Villa, by GROWTO DESIGN, celebrates simple pleasures for a serene escape ? complete with a tea room ? from urban life in Chengdu, China.

Amidst the urban clamor of Chengdu, China, Natural Villa offers a serene escape that seamlessly blends the tranquility of nature with modern living. The villa presented obstacles from the onset for GROWTO DESIGN, who were met with a three-story building with only one floor above ground. This resulted in two subterranean floors lacking natural light and ventilation, as well as lower height ceilings making it feel more claustrophobic.

The first step in transforming this space was reimagining the main living areas. By relocating the living room, dining room, kitchen, and study to the mezzanine level, the GROWTO DESIGN optimized the use of space. The inclusion of two strategically placed skylights floods the lower floors with much-needed natural light, creating an open, airy atmosphere that belies the structure’s underground nature. This clever design element not only enhances illumination but also fosters a stronger connection between the levels, promoting a sense of unity throughout the home.
The design ethos of Natural Villa is rooted in simplicity and elegance. Eschewing superfluous decoration, the space relies on the interplay of light, shadow, color, and texture to tell its story. This minimalist approach transforms the home into a tranquil haven, where every detail is thoughtfully curated to evoke calm and comfo...