‘Bridge House’ is a reconstruction of a loft-style apartment that also reimagines the emotional connections among its residents. Taking advantage of the loft’s high ceilings, a “bridge corridor” is introduced to create an open, shared space. This design aims to foster a strong emotional bond between the two generations living under one roof.
This project is located in Vanke World, Changping District, Beijing. It is a commercial loft apartment built with a concrete structure. Positioned in the northwest corner of the building, the single-story unit covers 40 square meters with a ceiling height of 4.2 meters. The interior features two large glass windows that bring in abundant natural light. A concrete ground beam runs near the windows. The clients—a mother and daughter—have unique demands, with the daughter working in art museum curation, expecting a home that meets her distinct taste.
To maximize the benefits of the loft’s height and natural light, the design introduces a “bridge corridor” which adds a distinctive structural element. The corridor’s curved form creates a series of gathering points, blurring the boundaries between the upper and lower levels. This layout enhances the connectivity and usability of the shared public space.
The first floor focuses on the living space functionality. Using platform structures, two distinct resting areas are created. The spatial relationship between the stairs and the floor height is carefully balanced to allow comfortable movement. The second-level platform extends vertically, enhancing natural light throughout the space and allowing visual connections across the three levels, encouraging communication among residents.
To enhance natural lighting, a skylight is placed between the kitchen and a small bedroom. The flooring throughout is finished with microcement, whose seamless surface gives the space a cohesive, unified feel.
The sofa in the rest area serves multiple functions, combining storage, lighting, and structural elements. Adjacent to it is a small bedroom that can be enclosed independently, extending the sofa platform and providing a long-term sleeping space for the owner’s mother.
All lighting in the house is provided by glass curtain walls, with the dining area being the only section with windows. The platform offers excellent views, overlooking distant mountains and the entire residence. As a visual focal point, this space possesses a unique and refined atmosphere.
The staircase to the second floor is cleverly placed behind an original column, creating unexpected paths and moments of discovery even after expanding the space. This serves as an introduction to the second-floor bridge corridor. An internal storage room is included for organizing daily clutter efficiently.
The “bridge corridor” not only extends the overall space but also creates a private circulation path on the second floor. The space is both well-separated and continuous, naturally fostering a sense of order. It resembles a small art museum, echoing the owner’s artistic temperament.
Moving from the “bridge corridor” into the bedroom, the 14-square-meter space includes a separate double bathroom and shower area. It also features storage, dressing, and workspace options, efficiently combining multiple functions within a compact footprint.
The bedroom floor features solid wood to enhance warmth and comfort. The shower room floor is slightly lowered to improve functionality and is finished in a different tone to distinguish it from the bedroom. Curved windows connect the bedroom to the shared hanging space, creating a balance between privacy and openness.
Throughout the project, the introduction of the “bridge corridor” serves to maximize natural light while giving the home a unique structural flow. Beyond functionality, the spatial analysis and reconstruction aim to strengthen emotional connections between residents, redefining the concept of loft living.
Technical Drawings
△ Spatial Analysis Diagram
△ First Floor Plan
△ Second Floor Plan
Project Information
Project Name: Bridge House
Location: Vanke World, Changping District, Beijing
Type: Loft commercial and residential apartment
Area: 40 square meters
Design Firm: XIGO STUDIO, specializing in theater architecture design
Project Creators: Liu Yang, Shi Yingjie
Plan Development: Master Wang Dan
Furniture Customization: GRANVISTA Landscape Home Furnishings
Main Materials: Home Craftsman Minai Rock, Home Craftsman Wood Flooring, DuPont Corian Artificial Stone, Labobo Ceramic Thin Plate, Nippon Paint
Design Period: January 2020 to July 2020
Construction Completed: April 2021
Layout Design: Liu Yang, Zhang Chunying
Construction Foreman: Yang Bo
Photography: Liming
Structural Consultant: Lan Tao
Academic Advisor: Zhu Li
Must log in before commenting!
Sign Up