A small leisurely residence hidden in the city

Located on Nanshan Road, adjacent to the China Academy of Art.
Perhaps it’s the artistic atmosphere seeping in from outside, but stepping into this space instantly brings a sense of tranquility. The sparrows that once perched on the telephone wires outside may no longer be there, but the creeping vines have now reached the windowsill—reminding us how hard it is to resist the charm of modern homes coexisting with nature’s greenery.
The owner had no specific demands for this vacant property. It could be a casual gathering spot for friends, a temporary home for a relative’s college-bound child, or an occasional accommodation for visitors exploring Hangzhou. The only real requirement was to break the original layout and create an open, airy space.
The original floor plan consisted of two bedrooms, zero living rooms, a cramped kitchen (more like a tiny compartment that barely fit one person), and one bathroom. The common area lacked even a proper dining space. We decided to open up everything and redesign from scratch. To ensure structural stability and safety in this old-house renovation, we performed calculations and reinforced the framework with newly poured beams and columns.
The upper floor was originally a rooftop terrace. Due to urban regulations, an illegally built sunroom had been demolished, leading to leaks and water damage. Additionally, the old ceiling contained prefabricated insulation layers, stealing 1.2 meters of overhead space. After removing all these obstructions, we carried out comprehensive roof repairs, reinforcement, and waterproofing. Only after these foundational renovations could the current layout take shape.