In the summer of 2016, we designed One Mu Garden in Suzhou (one mu = 666.67m2). The chosen site is inward-focused, as we aimed to develop a garden-residence where the internal ambiance takes precedence over the external surroundings. The site plan illustrates buildings arranged around the perimeter, with gardens at the center. The entrance is situated on the south side with a vegetable yard to the left and a garage to the right. Upon entering, a path appears between two walls, reminiscent of the rosebushes found in the classic Yipu garden. After a turn, we encounter a moon gate that offers a glimpse of the main garden's landscape. To access the garden, we need to first go indoors on the west side, passing through the entrance hall before reaching the main salon.
A polyline-shaped corridor-bridge spans the central area, dividing it into two sections: the main garden to the south, which serves as a public space, and the more private inner garden to the north. The main garden is more open, with an atelier on the east side facing the main salon to the west, while the inner garden expands in a winding manner towards the northeast. The garden's water inspired by Liu Garden, begins at the moon gate at the southernmost point of the main garden, flows beneath the corridor-bridge, meanders inward, and ultimately disappears into a courtyard in the northeast. These corridors create intriguing pathways for strolling, and a series of courtyards are arranged sequentially, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces while gradually enhancing privacy. Each room among these courtyards offers a unique view, contributing to its own distinct atmosphere. The northwestern and southeastern sections of the buildings are designed as two-story structures, adding a three-dimensional quality to this modern garden-villa with terraces and upper-floor rooms featuring courtyards.
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