The truth is simple. One plus one is equal to two. There is no other possibility. But in the process of pursuing truth, things will become more and more complicated and profound. For example, “what is man?” and “what is design?” People have accumulated profound knowledge through extensive research and practice in order to explain and point out the core of truth. This is what Mencius said: “In learning extensively and setting forth minutely what is learned, the superior man is to go back and set forth in brief what is essential.” Ancient China has already had similar ideas to Western minimalism. “Great music is simple, and so is the great rituals.” A Tang poetry of twenty words can contain profound artistic conception. Chinese calligraphy cursive script uses unrestrained lines to show the beauty of space.
Western modern minimalism was initiated after the advocation "Less is more" by German architect van der Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. It absorbed the ideals of postmodernism, deconstruction, and other design schools, especially for materials. Minimalism reflects a rich visual experience through simple surface combinations. In combination with the influence of fashion and the use of multimedia, materials that seem to be extremely common are presented in a novel structure, giving new vitality to the material.
Simple design eliminates heavy decoration and allows living space a return to nature, simple and pure value. The skill of a designer is reflected in the processing of details. Just like writing a cursive script, if one hasn't learned enough the basics, it is impossible to write simple and smooth lines. In the figures shown here, such as the simple staircase design, having only one side wall with concealed lighting handrails; the walls of the bedroom and dining room have been carefully designed, showing the style of detail processing skills of the designer.
"Splendours Tend to Simplicity," and the pursuit of simple design should not be just to cater to the trend but to a life-giving attitude. In Japan, Ms. Yamashita has used her own experience to promote a minimalist philosophy of life: “severe unnecessary things, leave unnecessary waste, and get rid of attachments to objects.” Personally I think that this does not mean negative attitudes. Instead, it is an active philosophy of life: if you can't afford to lose, how can you gain?
Design Director
Darren Au-yeung
