Project: Olive City Residence
Architecture: Fu Xia Design Studio
Design Team: Dou Qiannan, Zhang Wenling
Location: Chaoyang District, Beijing, China
Area: 320 m2
Year: 2024
Photo Credits: Hu Xueman
The Olive City Residence by Fu Xia Design Studio transforms a 250m² luxury apartment into a haven of warmth and effortless elegance. Owner Lisa returned to work with Fu Xia, seeking a residence with a relaxed charm, contrasting with the formal French style of her previous home. Fu Xia embraced this vision, designing an apartment that fosters connection and beauty while bringing refined touches to a modern urban lifestyle.
A Harmonious Flow of Space and Light
This renovation breaks from traditional apartment layouts by reimagining the flow of space. Previously, a long corridor separated the living and functional areas, creating a narrow feel with limited natural light. Fu Xia combined two smaller rooms to create a piano room for the client’s daughter, opening up the apartment and filling it with light. The integration of these spaces encourages family togetherness and transforms the environment into a bright, comfortable living area.
Expansive and Multi-Functional Kitchen Design
Another innovative change includes merging three small bedrooms into a spacious, light-filled kitchen. This new kitchen layout caters to both Western and Chinese cooking styles, creating a functional and visually open environment. The north-south cross-ventilation improves air circulation throughout the Olive City Residence, enhancing comfort and connection.
Inspired by Art and Nature
In the living room, expansive windows allow light to pour in, casting a warm ambiance that changes throughout the day. The room’s modular sofa design offers flexibility, inviting free arrangements and relaxed gatherings. Drawing inspiration from Japanese kimonos, the designer used elegant color transitions to evoke the day’s progression, creating a subtle connection to nature through seasonal changes.
Subtle Touches and Elegant Continuity
A serene color palette flows throughout the Olive City Residence, infusing the space with a calm, natural beauty. Light greens and soft neutrals reflect the vitality of a mist-covered forest, fostering a sense of peace. The decor balances refined French details with bold artwork and mirrors, harmoniously merging classic and modern styles. Each piece reflects outdoor beauty, enhancing the interplay between interior and landscape.
A Dining Room for Rituals and Reflection
The dining room, brightened by natural light and scenic views, fosters a sense of ritual and appreciation. Here, a long table invites family and guests to gather, transforming mealtime into a moment of connection and celebration. Nearby, the open kitchen and bar counter provide ample space for cooking, creating a flow that allows conversations to continue seamlessly.
Serene Corners for Rest and Reflection
The Olive City Residence incorporates cozy retreats throughout, from a reading nook with a colorful floor lamp to the bathroom, designed as a personal oasis. Patchwork tiles, gentle lighting, and rose-scented candles add an atmosphere of tranquility, perfect for unwinding. This attention to detail transforms ordinary moments into opportunities for rest and rejuvenation.
Spaces for Personality and Expression
Fu Xia’s design honors the individuality of each resident, celebrating boldness and creativity. The daughter’s room feels like a dreamy sanctuary, blending sweet colors with delicate floral details to reflect a youthful spirit. With iconic furniture pieces, such as the Roche Bobois mahjong table, Fu Xia introduces a playful, airy quality that encourages relaxation.
An Embrace of Nature and Artistic Influence
Bringing together art, nature, and elegance, the Olive City Residence creates a balanced and inviting atmosphere. The residence transforms daily life, enhancing simple joys and making each moment special. From the natural materials and artistic accents to thoughtfully designed spaces, the home embodies warmth and love, creating a sanctuary filled with refined living and meaningful connection.
