HHN

This unique renovation transforms an early 20th-century Chinese townhouse, located in the historic heart of Nanjing, into an exclusive residence for a passionate collector of Chinese art, bonsai, and aquariums. Rooted in minimalist principles and inspired by the quiet elegance of wabi-sabi, the design respects the building’s heritage restrictions while embracing a contemporary sensibility. Two major technical challenges defined the project: the addition of a new upper floor and the creation of a basement level. These interventions were made possible through advanced engineering solutions, including a ventilated foundation system to address humidity and lightweight steel-and-concrete slab structures. The basement, meticulously integrated into the urban fabric, navigates the complexity of being adjacent to two historic units built without foundations. Despite this, the result is a refined and technologically advanced space where innovation and tradition coexist seamlessly. Every detail was curated to offer a home of understated luxury—where serenity, craftsmanship, and smart architecture elevate everyday living.