I-Chen Lin and Chia-Ling HsiehGray Gate Design,  Taiwan

1 Congratulations on winning in the TITAN Property Awards! Tell us more about your company, studio, or yourself.

We are Gray Gate Design, a Taiwan-based interior design studio. We believe that simplicity holds profound power — through clean lines, fluid circulation, and balanced proportions, a space can offer calmness, comfort, and a sense of serenity to those who live within it.

2 Could you walk us through the concept and unique features of your award-winning project?

The uniqueness of Micro Era lies in its elegant curved walls, which define both circulation and spatial boundaries. By moving away from traditional rectangular layouts, we created a sense of softness and fluidity that brings visual harmony. We combined special wall coatings, woven rattan textures, and dark wood veneers to express a natural, comfortable atmosphere. The dining island integrates a table and storage units, maximizing space functionality while maintaining minimalist aesthetics — resulting in a serene, understated, and effortlessly relaxing environment.

3 What do you believe makes this project stand out in the property industry?

Instead of relying on exaggerated visuals, we focused on subtlety and depth. The curved design elegantly resolves the narrow entrance layout and conceals ample storage behind smooth surfaces. The tranquil, minimalist aesthetic creates a space that feels healing and invites long-term comfort — a philosophy that truly defines the project’s essence.

4 What's the first thought that crossed your mind when you found out you had won in the award?

We are deeply honored and excited to receive international recognition. This award is a tremendous encouragement for our entire team, motivating us to keep pushing creative boundaries.

5 What's the inspiration or story behind your winning entry? Was there a meaningful moment during its creation that you would like to share?

Our inspiration stemmed from modern life — one often overwhelmed by endless information. We wanted to create a sanctuary where people could slow down, breathe, and feel relaxed again.

6 What was the most surprising or unexpected element of your entry's journey from concept to completion?

The interplay between lighting and materials truly surprised us. When light meets the curved surfaces and special coatings, it creates ever-changing layers of shadow, adding unexpected depth and emotion to the space.

7 Designing properties often requires balancing art and science. How do you harmonize aesthetics with functionality in your work?

We designed the kitchen island to merge dining, storage, and preparation areas, embodying multifunctionality. Integrated storage systems hide all utilities behind curved walls or flush cabinetry. Linear lighting enhances a clean, continuous visual rhythm — offering practicality without sacrificing elegance.

8 What's the one challenge from this entry that you're most proud of overcoming?

The curved entrance wall — which includes hidden doors — was a major technical challenge. Every curve had to align seamlessly, demanding extreme precision in angle and dimension. We successfully overcame these nonlinear spatial complexities and turned them into the project’s most distinctive feature.

9 How do you think this recognition will impact your career or future projects?

This honor gives our team greater visibility on the global stage. It reinforces our belief in thoughtful design and encourages us to continue creating living spaces that combine aesthetic beauty with emotional resonance.

10 How do you think your entry contributes to the future of property design and development?

We realized that the true value of space lies beyond its form — it’s about addressing emotional needs and spatial comfort. A successful home should not only look beautiful but also feel like a “place for the heart.”

11 Sustainability is an important topic in today’s world. How do you integrate eco-conscious practices into your projects?

We use low-formaldehyde materials, rattan, LED energy-saving lighting, and reusable modular furniture. By minimizing excessive ornamentation, the space naturally matures with time. This “low-intervention design” embodies our approach to sustainable living.

12 Are there any upcoming projects or ideas that you’re particularly excited about pursuing?

We are developing an experimental project that blends art and residential living. Through curatorial thinking, we aim to transform the home into a platform for emotional and artistic dialogue — redefining what “living” can mean and making the home a space full of vitality.

13 If you could give one piece of advice to aspiring designers or developers entering the field today, what would it be?

We always begin by deeply understanding the residents’ real needs. Only then do we weave together aesthetics and functionality to create spaces that people can emotionally connect with — spaces that truly resonate.

WINNING ENTRY

2025
TITAN Property Awards - Quietude in Motion

Category

Interior Design - Compact Living

TITAN Property Silver Winner