Dream Island by GROWTO Design in Chengdu, China

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Poetic dialogue between architecture, nature and time

In the vibrant city of Chengdu, Dream Island by GROWTO Design embodies a vision that transcends trends. Rather than chasing novelty, the architects sought to restore the essence of home—a dialogue between space, nature and emotions. The result is a house that feels timeless, tangible and deeply human—a setting where design nourishes both body and soul.

The project is grounded in GROWTO's belief that architecture should return to the site: understanding of land, climate and traditions that shape people's lifestyles. Over the course of a year, the team thoroughly revisited every level—from plot and structure to interior atmosphere—transforming the house into an immersive experience connecting memories, art and everyday life.

Courtyard as the heart of the home

At the center of Dream Island lies a vertical garden courtyard, connecting upper and lower levels. This picturesque, light-filled opening becomes the spatial and emotional core of the home.

Situated from first floor to second basement level, it forms a serene composition of glass, greenery and reflections. Functionally, it links public spaces—such as the living room, tea area, bar and art hall—through a seamless spatial sequence. Symbolically, it connects opposing qualities of the house—calm and life, creating a poetic balance between light and shadow, privacy and openness.

The courtyard employs the ancient Chinese concept of four waters returning to the hall, directing natural light and air flows deep inside the building. Hidden boundaries between interior and exterior evoke separation without isolation, borders without restrictions. The resulting experience is meditative calm—a private world open to rhythms of nature.

Layers of light and spatial rhythm

Each level of Dream Island unfolds with its distinctive character and purpose, maintaining a consistent dialogic connection through materials and rhythm.

The first floor functions as the main public zone, reinterpreting traditional spatial order with modern minimalism. Natural light spreads through reimagined openings and wooden lattices, creating a balanced choreography of brightness and shadow. The semi-open layout facilitates natural flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, where family gatherings, artistic dining and tea ceremonies seamlessly integrate into daily life.

Subtle details—such as screens that shift between concealment and exposure—add theatricality to ordinary moments. Every beam of light and every view contributes to the narrative of tranquility and contemplation.

Spaces for play, growth and imagination

The second floor includes children's bedrooms and shared leisure areas. Here, GROWTO Design presents a playful palette and more flexible arrangement that fosters creativity and exploration.

This level becomes a miniature landscape of imagination—a 'forest of dreams' where color and form support growth and curiosity. Every surface and corner offers opportunities for discovery, while maintaining harmony with the overall tranquil atmosphere of the home.

Private reality above

Ascending to the third floor, architecture becomes quieter and more introspective. The master bedroom and private relaxation area radiate modest elegance through their material restraint and organic forms.

Arced volumes and softened edges blur the boundaries of ceiling and walls, diffusing light and creating a gentle spatial transition. The atmosphere here is deeply personal and contemplative, a sanctuary that celebrates the beauty of calm and dignity of simplicity.

Sustainable design rooted in nature

Beyond aesthetics, Dream Island embodies a responsible lifestyle with low emissions. Through the implementation of light wells, underground gardens and natural ventilation paths, the house maintains thermal comfort year-round with minimal energy consumption.

The closed-loop recycling system reduces water and electricity usage, while new insulated facades and high-efficiency glazing enhance both acoustic and thermal performance. Thus, the dwelling becomes not just an artistic statement but also a model of environmental awareness and long-term viability.

A modern Eastern masterpiece

Dream Island represents the maturity of GROWTO Design's philosophy—a modern Chinese home that respects traditional ideals of harmony, balance and nature. It is simultaneously contemporary and timeless, where craftsmanship meets reflection, and architecture becomes a tool for emotional resonance.

In its restrained color palette, carefully modulated lighting and fluid spatial relationships, Dream Island transforms everyday life into art—a modern sanctuary that restores peace in a rapidly changing world.