Urban Serenity Appartement by Xiyao Wang

Urban Serenity Appartement by Xiyao Wang is a highly esteemed winner of the very prestigious 2026 A' Design Award in IJzer in Interieur en Tentoonstellingsontwerp Competition Category.

IJzerInterieur· 2026

Urban Serenity Appartement

by Xiyao Wang

Client: Extended Play Lab

A' Design Award in IJzer Winner in Interieur Category

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Verified Award Winner

Verify Award Status for #163678

Visit Site View at A' Design Award Press Release Award Badge

Colors

The Design

About Urban Serenity Appartement

Urban Serenity herdefinieert stedelijk wonen door elegantie naadloos te verweven met aanpasbaarheid. Het ontwerp onderscheidt zich door de innovatieve integratie van ruimtes, waardoor natuurlijk licht en visuele verbindingen worden versterkt, terwijl door doordachte kleurenschema's toch afzonderlijke identiteiten behouden blijven. Belangrijke kenmerken van het ontwerp zijn een veelzijdige centrale barruimte, gepersonaliseerde kamerindelingen en een harmonieuze doorstroming die zowel intieme als sociale functies ondersteunt, waardoor een woning ontstaat die zich aanpast aan uiteenlopende leefsituaties.

The Recognition

About the A' Design Award in IJzer

Urban Serenity Appartement is winnaar van de A' Design Award in IJzer, een prestigieuze erkenning die wordt toegekend aan goede ontwerpen die voldoen aan de professionele en industriële eisen die worden verwacht van goed ontworpen creaties. Winnaars in IJzer tonen grote vaardigheid, hoge specialisatie, deskundig inzicht en het creatieve vermogen van hun makers. Urban Serenity Appartement wordt verwacht een hooggewaardeerde, bewonderde en gekoesterde creatie te zijn die praktisch en innovatief is. Dit ontwerp dat de A' Design Award in IJzer heeft gewonnen, integreert de beste praktijken uit de sector en heeft bekwame technische kenmerken die verbonden zijn met knowhow en talent. Urban Serenity Appartement wordt gerespecteerd om zijn grondigheid en is ontworpen om verbeteringen van de levenskwaliteit te bieden die helpen de wereld een betere plek te maken.

Behind the Design

Press Kit

Credits, team members and technical details provided by the designer.

Unique Properties: Urban Serenity redefines urban living by seamlessly blending elegance with adaptability. The design stands out for its innovative integration of spaces, enhancing natural light and visual connections while maintaining distinct identities through thoughtful color schemes. Key features include a versatile central bar area, personalized room layouts, and a harmonious flow that supports both intimate and social functions, creating a home that adapts to diverse living scenarios.
Dimensions & Packaging: The apartment area is 160 square meters.
Tags: Interior Design, Apartment Design, Modern Living, Minimalist, Abstract
Production Technology: The design of Urban Serenity utilized a blend of traditional and innovative techniques. We began by reimagining the apartment's spatial layout, breaking down barriers to enhance natural light and connectivity. The project employed precise spatial analysis to optimize room functions, using materials like warm-toned wood and soft textiles to create a cohesive atmosphere. Collaborative discussions with the homeowner guided the selection of lighting, furniture, and finishes, ensuring a tailored and refined result.
Design Challenge: The hardest part of designing Urban Serenity was creatively balancing openness with privacy. The challenge lay in reconfiguring the layout to enhance natural light and social connectivity while preserving intimate spaces. Historical and social contexts influenced our approach, as we sought to honor traditional Chinese spatial harmony. Limited space and structural constraints required innovative use of materials and technology to achieve a fluid, adaptable environment that meets modern urban needs.
Research: We conducted qualitative research focused on enhancing urban living. The objective was to create a space that blends warmth with functionality. We used spatial analysis, interviews with the homeowner, and observational studies to gather insights. Tools included 3D modeling and material sampling. The results showed a need for adaptable spaces with natural light, leading to a design that enhances well-being, fosters social interaction, and elevates urban residential standards.
Inspiration: The inspiration for Urban Serenity came from a desire to blend urban sophistication with a deeply personal, warm living environment. We aimed to create a space that not only reflects the dynamic energy of Lujiazui but also serves as a serene retreat. The design draws from the idea of fluidity in living spaces, allowing for versatility and adaptability while maintaining a sense of intimacy and connection with the surrounding urban landscape.
Project Duration: The project started in 2020 in Shanghai, and finished in 2022. The project was severly delayed due to covid lockdown.
Operation Flow: The design transforms traditional apartment layouts by integrating spaces to enhance connectivity and interaction. By removing a key wall, we redefined the communal areas, allowing natural light to flood the living room and study, creating a continuous visual connection with the surrounding urban and natural landscapes. The central bar, dining, and living spaces are unified, encouraging fluid movement and interaction while maintaining distinct identities through contrasting color palettes.
Image Credits: Image #1: Photographer Rex Zou. Image #2: Designer Qiu Jin. Image #3: Project Manager Sitan Yi.