White – Conceptual White
The concept of “white” in Eastern culture has always been abstract—from the techniques of traditional Chinese white painting to the art of splashing ink and preserving blank spaces. Over time, “white” has evolved into a symbol of conceptual “emptiness” through religious philosophy, representing a collective intellectual advancement. In contrast, modern Western architecture often employs white as a logical, strategic choice—either as a deliberate relaxation or a minimalist abandonment—characterized by simplicity and directness. While Western white is straightforward and pragmatic, the origin of white as a profound concept lies in the East.
Looking back to Zhuangzi’s reflections on “white”: “White is born from a void, and good fortune comes to an end.” At that time, “white” still carried tangible meaning bordering on nihilism—such as silence, useless utility, and unassuming wisdom. Zhuangzi’s interpretation of “white” was functional; he used it to illustrate a flexible, adaptable approach to relationships and life. In his philosophy, “white” was a stance, a way of being.
With this understanding, when we incorporate “white” into a predetermined environment to create architecture, the intent is not necessarily to express the extreme minimalism of modernist design (though we do not reject or ignore it). Instead, it conveys composure and balance.
Whether it’s the character of a small building on a narrow street or the initial identity of a new brand, composure and openness are established at the very start of conception. This foundational decision governs the entire design process that follows. Here, we discuss a “white” creative process that is detached from formal logic, allowing “meaning” to grow naturally and then be shaped into an “environment” through design techniques.
ZS is a new brand specializing in pure white (black and gray) T-shirts and sweatshirts. It is deeply rooted in fabric technology, pattern design, and stitching craftsmanship. This product logic possesses a strong architectural sensibility, naturally influencing our architectural space construction techniques for this project.
Within this conceptual framework, our approach emphasizes the rational organization and arrangement of materials, functional construction, optimization of spatial flow, closure of materials and structural elements, and passive energy-saving strategies in the building renovation. These are all grounded in purely rational, physical construction principles.
The architecture and interior spaces express a clear rational tension through a relaxed form of self-expression. At the same time, we explore a technique that embodies “white”.
Architecture – Honesty Established Through Project Communication
Unlike typical projects, we use traditional coating and building materials such as textured paint and latex paint to create complete spatial surfaces. Here, details are embedded in the structure itself—not just surface treatments.
From the outset, communication between the client and our team established clear boundaries. We discussed controllable investment budgets, carefully calibrated expected returns, quickly aligned on the concept, and jointly overcame implementation challenges and risks. This mutual trust and honesty throughout the project—from initiation and design to construction—reflects the integrity of the building’s physical properties and spatial character.
The famous motto of the AA School of Architecture states: “Design with beauty, build in truth.” This echoes the ancient Greek philosophy that beauty and truth are one and multifaceted. These two phrases convey the same message with a relaxed confidence—very much in tune with the essence of “white”.
Technical Drawings
△ Elevation Drawing
△ Elevation Drawing
△ Axonometric Diagram
Project Information
Project Name: White ZS Lab
Location: Guangzhou, China
Area: 1,100 square meters
Owner: Zhishi
Completion Date: July 2020
Architectural Design: Dongchang Construction | Yu Lin
Landscape Design: Dongchang Construction | Yu Lin
Interior Design: Dongchang Construction | Yu Lin
Device Display: A& V Eucalyptus and Wesson
Collaborative Design: Dongchang Construction | Wang Shujie et al.
Media Management: Dongchang Construction | Li Ziran
Photography: Wu Jianquan
Construction Contractor: Guangzhou Duanzhen Decoration Design Co., Ltd.
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