Many of the buildings in this historical area advocate for the principle of "repairing as it was." In this project, Basistudio aims to preserve the original historical spirit of the architecture so designer decided to expose all the original structures of the space on the lower floor while the same time to introduce new materials and designs to contrast and complement the existing space, thereby reinvigorating the space with new vitality. Due to the age of the building and its limited load-bearing capacity, designer decided to use lightweight steel structures as a new addition fixed to its original framework.

Basistudio created a new spatial sequences through a "light intervention" design approach inserting a steel atrium to create a new spatial experience and circulation connecting lower floor to upper floor. To enhance spatial hierarchy and central focal points, the floor under the atrium was partially raised. With three steps leading to the center of the atrium, a dynamic art installation “Blossom” is revealed. Traversing through the atrium, the mutually penetrating visual relationships weave the spatial textures of the new and old together.

The semi-transparent atrium defines the space while filtering the natural light into the space through its metal mesh. It blurs the boundaries between interior and exterior.