Iron Interior Space and Exhibition Design · 2025
The Circadian Home Highrise Residence
- A' Design Award 2025 Iron Winner in Interior Space and Exhibition Design
- Awarded April 15, 2025
- CLIENT: Devalo Design
- Estimated Number of Design Views: 16,413
- Verification code 73129F2DA4 · Verify this award
About The Circadian Home Highrise Residence
A home should be a sanctuary for relaxation and revitalization, reflecting personal qualities, open, transparent, safe, and inviting. After the challenges of the pandemic, creating an environment that harmonizes with natural elements has become especially important, particularly as circadian rhythms are closely tied to daily life. The Circadian Home maximizes the flow of natural light into the space, with each area considering the user's habits and needs. The homeowner can naturally and effortlessly follow the rhythm of day and night, promoting physical and mental wellbeing.
Camille Chung's Highrise Residence presents a meticulously composed dining environment that demonstrates sophisticated understanding of contemporary residential design principles while honoring enduring mid-century modernist ideals of organic form, natural material expression, and restrained elegance, the space achieving remarkable balance between architectural presence and domestic warmth through careful calibration of contrasting elements that reward sustained contemplation. The composition centers around a generous marble-topped dining table whose pale stone surface displays nature's own artistry through delicate gray veining patterns that evoke landscape forms or crystalline structures, this geological materiality grounding the space in elemental permanence while its polished reflective finish introduces luminous interplay with the sculptural glass chandelier suspended above, the lighting fixture itself representing a notable achievement in sculptural design through its asymmetrical arrangement of transparent spheres that suggest molecular structures, celestial configurations, or the effervescent joy of celebration, the brass or bronze armature providing geometric order to organic abundance while maintaining visual transparency that prevents the substantial fixture from overwhelming the vertical volume. The surrounding furnishings demonstrate discerning selection, with six identically upholstered dining chairs whose wraparound forms and slender metal legs clearly reference the organic modernism of Scandinavian design masters from the mid-twentieth century, their pale gray fabric introducing subtle textural warmth while maintaining the overall luminosity essential to creating an inviting atmosphere, the chairs' curved embracing profiles suggesting both physical comfort and visual grace. The architectural envelope employs warm walnut paneling along one wall plane, its continuous vertical grain pattern introducing organic rhythm and tactile richness that prevents the space from reading as overly austere or cold, this wood surface providing essential thermal and chromatic balance to the cooler tones of marble and upholstery, while the opposing wall opens through white painted surfaces that maximize light reflection and spatial openness, punctuated by floating shelves in matching walnut that display carefully selected objects including living greenery, personal photographs, and decorative vessels, each item contributing to the narrative of cultivated domestic life. The single concentrated note of chromatic intensity appears in the form of a horizontally oriented abstract painting in saturated crimson reds, its gestural surface suggesting organic forms or landscape elements while providing essential visual energy and emotional warmth that activates the otherwise restrained palette, this artwork functioning as both aesthetic accent and cultural signifier of artistic engagement and refined taste. The designer appears to have worked within established vocabularies of contemporary luxury residential design while avoiding ostentation, instead pursuing a vision of quiet sophistication where quality materials, thoughtful proportions, and restrained gestures combine to create an environment that supports daily rituals of gathering and nourishment while maintaining sufficient visual interest to reward repeated inhabitation, the space suggesting permanence and care while remaining uncluttered and serene, an achievement that speaks to disciplined editing and clear hierarchical thinking about what elements serve essential functional and aesthetic purposes, inviting viewers to consider how residential environments might honor both timeless design principles and contemporary life patterns through synthesis rather than novelty, how spaces for gathering might balance architectural presence with domestic warmth, and how material choices communicate values of quality, durability, and connection to natural world.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- The execution of the entire project coincided with the pandemic-related travel restrictions. These limitations affected the construction process in various ways, including public health safety measures and the need to determine which tasks required on-site work versus factory processing. As a result, The designer and construction team had to reorganize the entire construction schedule, allowing the project to proceed smoothly while minimizing on-site pollution and unnecessary travel.
- Dimensions & Packaging
- This project is located in Jian Guo Xi Lu, Shanghai, China. A high-rise residential property on the 29th floor.
The total area is 310 square meters with three bedrooms, and the client's requirement is to have two bedrooms, one private working area, one family room, and dining room adjacent to the living room for hosting guests. - Tags
- Highrise, Residence, Luxury, Interior Design, Bespoke, Immersing, Unique, Contemporary, Architectural Interiors, Hospitality
- Production Technology
- The primary finishes in the project are wood, marble and special paint. All finishes, cabinetry, and millwork were produced in the factory to minimise sound and air pollution as much as possible.
In a commitment to environmental and ecological sustainability, the designer opted against using thick solid slabs. Instead, the natural marble on the walls features a 6mm thickness, supported by aluminium backing to ensure structural integrity and ease of installation. The designer and constructional team minimized the environmental pollution and reduced material waste. - Design Challenge
- The project's design and construction were successfully completed through remote communication, necessitated by COVID19 travel restrictions. The Designer, client, and construction crew utilized technology to maintain seamless communication, enabling the project to be executed with effective online supervision.
The construction phase faced challenges that could not be addressed directly on site with contractors. A specific example involved a 3 meter cantilevered structure designed to resemble a sailing boat, reflecting the client's passion for sailing. To overcome these challenges, the designer and contractor used tools like Zoom, 3D modelling, and 360 degree photography for real time communication and problem solving. - Project Duration
- The design of project started in March 2021, construction period was from June 2021 - February 2022 in Shanghai, China.
- Operation Flow
- The Client's requirement is to create a home that seamlessly integrates all aspects of his daily life. This includes hosting friends, working from home and enjoying a restful environment.
To achieve that, the designer built a home that understands the owner's needs, seamlessly integrating design elements that minimized the clutter of everyday life, no visible wires or controls. A well designed home is as intuitive as nature itself, allowing the owner to use the space instinctively.
To save the energy and eco friendly, the designer has kept the equipment cabinetry at the open kitchen, and built an open bar adjacent to the enclosed kitchen provided by the developer with a sliding door, so two spaces can be easily supporting event functions. - Research
- As we live and as we are, Simplicity with a capital S, is difficult to comprehend nowadays. We are no longer truly simple. Life is a more complex struggle now. It is a spiritual thing to comprehend what simplicity means.
by Frank Lloyd Wright, The Natural House.
The concept of simplicity often varies from person to person and evolves over time. At its core, simplicity refers to clarity and ease of understanding or use, stripping away unnecessary elements to focus on the essentials. In design, achieving simplicity can be particularly challenging.
As a designer, the goal is to distill a client's complex requirements into an elegant solution that feels straightforward. However, this process often involves substantial effort behind the scenes. A clean and neat space may require intricate storage solutions, while an unobtrusive ceiling might hide complex mechanisms.
Thus, simplicity is not synonymous with ease, it often masks the complexity involved in the design process. It is about creating harmony and functionality while ensuring that the end product appears effortless. The challenge lies in balancing aesthetics with practicality and integrating various professional insights to achieve that seamless outcome. - Inspiration
- The COVID-19 pandemic has fundamentally transformed contemporary lifestyles. In the aftermath of this global crisis, it is imperative to foster an environment that aligns with natural elements, including the principles of circadian rhythms.
Home should be a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. Therefore in this retreat, you can immerse yourself in nature, seamlessly following the rhythms of day and night and promoting both health and a sense of fulfilment. - Image Credits
- #1#2#3#4: Photographer StudioSZ / Justin Szeremeta, 2024
Colors of The Circadian Home Highrise Residence
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G0E3 ShopDesign Interview about The Circadian Home Highrise Residence
The principle to my design is always to maximum the natural light in the space, and use the advantage of the view to create different frames of pictures among activities in an open space. The owner of the house likes to host people in the same time he is a person cares about privacy. The design has to take all the perspectives of owner's habits in living and his character.
The flow of the open space. I want to make the space fluid for different hosting events, and when the client wants to have more quite zone, there's family room adjacent to the dinning area that he can enjoy a movie, reading or listening to music.
This project was designed during a difficult time - Covid 19 in China., I was restricted from traveling so I was working remotely in Taiwan for the entirely project. I think this has proven that my capability of taking overseas projects. Hope I can get more design projects from different countries in the future.
The conceptual development usually takes one to two weeks. For this one I think it was two weeks time including the site survey from remotely control.
It's more about the understanding to know my client. I always find inspiration by knowing my client's personality and habits, I could work around it or make an break through from it. My client used to appreciate more classical , revival design, so I wanted to give him nothing more modern and timeless in particular in this high-rise building.
Not at the moment. I still produce my own design however I have partnership to cooperate with in modelling process. I don't have limitation on any cooperation opportunity.
French concession is an unique area in Shanghai, to have this design project in a tall, newly built building is also not an easy gained. I naturally wish to make it happened.
No, it's all my own design on this project.
Whoever appreciates art, high quality design work and craftsmanship.
My client is American with Shanghainese soul, he requests a family room like all American houses have. He sometimes love the mixture of classic and modern, so I was trying to control all the design elements but let him to play with the decorative items as he's preferences, in a certain control of it.
During Covid-19, the lock down almost let people forget time and pace. The routine of daily life was messed up. In this design, I want to make sure the home can be the comfortable retreat for my client, meanwhile it has maximised the natural rhythm " light and flow" to the house. even during night time or the time with weak natural light, I want to make sure the lighting system in the house is sufficient and controllable for the client to create the scenes for his activities, and during daytime, he doesn't need much manual lights to get the regular routines done. That's why I named this project The Circadian Home.
Hand sketches, iPad, autocad, Photoshop and Indesign.
Almost every corner at the functional areas, the kitchen, the dinning area, the family room, the living room can enjoy the view of the skyline.
The constructional team in Shanghai called Yue Fu China. They respect my design and try different ways to make sure my design can be carried out as I specified. They also have done some work and technique in construction that we used to do differently so I have also learned something from them.
To help the client have more controls with ease in living as he wishes and remove the excess visible wires to reduce mess.
Not particularly in this design project.
Not being able to visit the site during construction phase. There were different standard of works and installation between different areas or countries, so keep coordination and communication in time was the key for this project.
I'd like to make more exposure on various media for my work and get more opportunities to work with other professionals and see other countries design as well as increasing exposure on social net working.
There are always some unexpected issues during constructional phase, I always try to learn from it, remember the mistake or imperfection so that I can make it better in the future project and the past experiences can always bring me to a higher level of execution the design work.
I would like to say thank you for the supporting member, Sunny Chung and team from various suppliers to construction - Yue Fu China, my Client - Jay Chin for trusting me. And finally, my photographer Studio SZ - Justin Szeremeta.
Grand Interview about The Circadian Home Highrise Residence
When it comes to interior design, lighting isn’t just a practical necessity—it’s the secret ingredient that shapes how we experience a space, day and night. Thoughtful planning of light flow throughout the home is essential, ensuring each room aligns perfectly with its intended use and atmosphere.The first step? Consider the orientation of your home and the surrounding environment. Understanding which direction your windows face and what lies beyond them—be it open skies, leafy trees, or neighboring buildings—will help you harness natural light to its fullest potential.Spaces designed for daytime activities, such as living rooms and dining areas, should bask in the glow of natural sunlight. Positioning these welcoming, communal zones close to windows creates bright, uplifting environments that invite conversation and comfort. Meanwhile, more private areas like family rooms or media spaces can be tucked deeper inside the floor plan, where a cocoon-like ambiance is often preferred.But natural light shouldn’t be limited to rooms with windows alone. Creative solutions—think sliding doors or operable screens—can help connect different areas, allowing sunlight to filter through and brighten even the most secluded corners. This thoughtful approach not only maximizes daylight but also fosters a sense of openness and fluidity throughout the home.By planning for both function and flow, you can create interiors that truly shine—morning, noon, and night.
Design Solutions in the Digital Age: Blending Traditional Craft and Modern TechToday’s designers have an arsenal of creative tools at their disposal when it comes to resolving on-site challenges, Gone are the days of relying solely on blueprints and phone calls. Now, a blend of traditional methods and cutting-edge technology allows us to tackle problems from every angle—quite literally.Take a recent project as an example. To address a specific issue with the bar’s structure and orientation, I turned to a variety of mediums: quick hand sketches to capture initial ideas, 3D digital models to explore forms in virtual space, and even physical models to truly understand the angles and construction details. Each technique offered unique insights, helping bring the solution into sharper focus.But the real game-changer is how technology bridges distances. With collaborators scattered across different countries, digital platforms have become our virtual meeting tables. Through screen sharing and real-time communication, I can walk contractors through my proposed solutions, down to the finest detail. Their feedback? Instantly received and seamlessly integrated—thanks to the power of modern design software.This dynamic blend of hands-on creativity and digital connectivity ensures that technical issues are not just resolved, but refined—efficiently, collaboratively, and with a global reach. In today’s design landscape, innovation knows no borders.
Intuitive by Design: Simplicity at the CoreMy design philosophy is rooted in the belief that great design should feel effortless—just as intuitive as using an iPhone for the first time. With this in mind, I strive to seamlessly integrate multiple functions into a single device, piece of equipment, or space, ensuring everything works together harmoniously without unnecessary complexity.The goal isn’t to overwhelm, but to enrich the experience. By blending versatility and simplicity, I aim to create environments and products that are not only beautiful, but also instinctively easy to use—where every feature feels natural, and sophistication is found in thoughtful details, not in complicated layers.In a world where technology and design often collide, I believe the best solutions are those that quietly anticipate your needs—making life simpler, smoother, and more enjoyable, one intuitive interaction at a time.
Collaboration in Craft: Working with Yue Fu ChinaOne of the greatest pleasures in my design career has been collaborating with the skilled construction team at Yue Fu China. Their professionalism and dedication are apparent in every phase of the process, especially when it comes to balancing design ambition with practical constraints.When I specify a standout feature—be it a striking material or a unique structural detail—I’m always mindful that exceptional quality often comes at a premium. Yet, Yue Fu China consistently rises to the challenge, working closely with me to find smart, cost-effective solutions that never compromise on the original vision.A recent example stands out: While selecting stone slabs, we reviewed countless options from various factories, often relying on photos and video calls to make decisions remotely. When our chosen stone wasn’t available in sufficient quantities, the Yue Fu team didn’t simply suggest a substitute. Instead, they proposed a creative approach, collaborating with me to maximize every slab and minimize waste. Through thoughtful planning and meticulous execution, we were able to stretch resources without sacrificing design integrity.This level of transparency and ingenuity not only solves technical challenges—it also builds trust. Our clients see firsthand that we’re not just resolving issues as they arise, but also keeping their interests and investment top of mind. Ultimately, it’s this spirit of collaboration and care that elevates a project from good to truly great.
Redefining the Home Office: A Post-Pandemic Perspective.The COVID-19 pandemic transformed the way we work, making remote efficiency not just a necessity, but a new standard. Like so many others, my client found himself spending less time in traditional office settings and more time working from home—a shift that prompted a thoughtful reimagining of his workspace.To address this change, I designed his home office as a space that supports productivity without overwhelming his personal sanctuary. Rather than replicating a corporate workstation, I focused on creating a study adjacent to his bedroom, separated by operable doors. This arrangement offers both privacy and flexibility, while the relaxed atmosphere ensures the space feels like an extension of his home, not just a place to clock in.By blending function and comfort, the home office becomes a seamless part of daily life—reducing commute time and enhancing work-life balance, all while providing everything he needs to succeed from the comfort of home.
The Art of Simplicity: Design That FlowsFor me, simplicity—my guiding “S”—is not just a principle, but a way of creating spaces that flow effortlessly, like water finding its natural course. My ultimate aim is to make life easier and more beautiful through thoughtful design.As I’ve mentioned before, it’s never just about aesthetics; it’s about crafting environments that are as intuitive as they are striking. Every element is considered not only for its visual appeal, but also for how seamlessly it integrates into daily life. The result? Spaces where beauty and ease coexist, elevating the experience for every occupant.
A Kitchen Designed for Connection and CultureAt the heart of the home, the open kitchen and bar area is thoughtfully designed to foster both functionality and social connection. A sleek sliding door links this inviting space to the enclosed eastern kitchen, which seamlessly connects to the back-of-house door and service lift—an essential feature for efficient household operations.For Asian cooking, where robust flavors and aromatic dishes are part of daily life, it’s crucial to consider ventilation and separation. The enclosed kitchen ensures that smoke and scent are expertly contained, allowing for a variety of cooking methods without impacting the comfort of the main living areas.When it’s time to entertain, the design comes into its own. Whether the client is preparing tea, hosting a hotpot dinner, or mixing drinks, the bar offers a welcoming setting where guests can gather around the long counter, enjoying effortless interaction with their host. It’s a space where culinary culture and meaningful moments seamlessly blend, making every gathering both comfortable and memorable.
There was a period in China when strict regulations made site visits for construction teams challenging, slowing down on-site work significantly. For me, the situation was even more complex—I was pregnant, and the prospect of traveling under quarantine restrictions on both ends made site visits impossible.This unique set of circumstances called for a creative shift in our construction approach. The contractor pivoted to an off-site production model, which not only kept the project moving forward but also brought unexpected benefits. By fabricating components off-site, we dramatically reduced waste and minimized the need for constant commuting.In hindsight, the experience was eye-opening. Not flying across continents to inspect the site undoubtedly lessened my personal carbon footprint. Imagine the positive impact if more projects around the world adopted similar strategies—rethinking traditional workflows in favor of smarter, more sustainable solutions. Sometimes, adapting to obstacles isn’t just about overcoming them; it’s about discovering better ways to build for the future.
Looking ahead, I believe that the future of dense urban living will be shaped by modular, decorative design solutions. As property prices and construction costs continue to rise, and with the rapid advancement of AI technology, the way we approach residential spaces is bound to shift.Luxury and bespoke design, I predict, will increasingly find their home in the entertainment and hospitality sectors—spaces where experience and wow-factor are paramount. Meanwhile, our everyday living environments will embrace a more streamlined, simplistic aesthetic. Modular systems and prefabricated elements will offer flexibility and efficiency, making high-quality design more accessible and better suited to the fast-paced demands of city life.In this new era, home design will prioritize smart solutions and understated elegance—creating spaces that are practical, adaptable, and beautifully uncomplicated.
Redefining Luxury: Sustainability at the Heart of DesignLuxury design, in my view, is not simply a matter of lavish spending. True luxury lies in thoughtful choices—selecting the right materials, minimizing waste, and prioritizing ethical, environmentally friendly, and long-lasting products. By embracing these principles, designers can help pave the way toward truly sustainable living.A compelling example of this philosophy in action comes from California, where wildfires have become an all-too-common threat. Architect Michael Kovac and his wife, Dr. Karina Maher, designed their home with both sustainability and wildfire resilience at its core. By carefully considering materials and construction methods, they created a sanctuary that not only stands up to environmental challenges but also treads lightly on the planet.Their approach is a powerful reminder: luxury and sustainability are not mutually exclusive. When design is guided by conscience as well as creativity, we can build spaces that are both beautiful and responsible—setting a new standard for what it means to live well. Nature is the new luxury.