- Interior
Don't be fooled by the name of the project, because for many the Imperfect Residence will come very close to their perfect interior dream. With a focus on simplicity and the beauty of the imperfect, designer Nelson Chow created a beautiful and unique apartment.
Nelson Chow, head designer of NC Design & Architecture (NCDA), designed the Imperfect Residence, a one-bedroom apartment, in Hong Kong together with his team. The designer was given carte blanche with only three conditions: it had to look beautiful, be functional and age well. Chow created a design that works on two levels: visual and psychological. Visually, the design looks uncluttered and tidy, everything is seamlessly a part of the architecture. On a psychological level, the design provides relaxation for the inhabitants and feels like an oasis far away from the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong. 
Nelson Chow focuses on simplicity and the beauty of imperfection.
The whole concept of this sober but powerful interior was based on the ancient Japanese 'wabi sabi' philosophy that embraces beauty that is imperfect, transient and incomplete. NCDA translated this philosophy into a contemporary aesthetic where simplicity is central and minimal details, decoration and well-considered furniture bring everything into a beautiful and powerful whole. In this way, bold geometries are combined with materials in their natural, unfinished state. 
The whole concept is based on the ancient Japanese 'wabi sabi' philosophy that embraces beauty that is imperfect, transient and incomplete.
For the design, the apartment was divided into three different main zones separated by dark passages. Between the Sculpture Garden (living space), Sanctuary (bedroom) and Altar (bathroom), Chow created a play between light and shadow that feels natural. The airy living room is inspired by a sculpture garden. You will find geometric fragments of marble and oxidized metal integrated in the wooden floor and plaster walls. The space has a minimal background which makes the sculptural elements and decoration stand out. Think, for example, of the fine bronze plate that hangs against the wall. In the bedroom, there's a large window that provides plenty of natural light and softens the room. In the bathroom, materials such as bronze and marble come back again. 
Materials and shapes are in harmony with each other in this unique residence. Everything together forms a soothing and minimalistic whole in which interesting, special details and pieces are put in the spotlight. A true celebration of simplicity and imperfection. 
All Images Courtesy of NC Design & Architecture
Photographer: Harold De Puymorin