Philip Annetta

1 week ago | design-anthology.com | Philip Annetta

As e-commerce and physical retail continue to rebalance, it’s become clear that brick-and-mortar stores need to offer a compelling experience — and a proven method is through design. Ace Play Sport in Taipei occupies an old shophouse in Shezi, surrounded by older apartment buildings and well-established local businesses, and its owners turned to local firm Zhu Shi Design Studio to craft the space into something that would draw customers back.

4 weeks ago | design-anthology.com | Philip Annetta

The lower floor feels more like a private retreat, with the main bedroom and bathroom, a walk-in closet, children’s bedrooms and a children’s bathroom. The two levels share a cohesive palette of mineral-based paint and high-durability vinyl flooring, with accents such as stainless steel in the cabinetry and the stone and metal of the kitchen island. A standout feature is the staircase that connects the two levels, an element as sculptural as it is practical.

1 month ago | design-anthology.com | Philip Annetta

With the spatial design finalised, Studio Esar was brought on for the interiors. ‘We had to create a space that is a sanctuary for the family, but that is also practical,’ says studio founder Silvia Roldan. ‘They gave us free reign to curate a collection of furniture, art and objects that worked with the eclecticism of the house.

1 month ago | design-anthology.com | Philip Annetta

With the spatial design finalised, Studio Esar was brought on for the interiors. ‘We had to create a space that is a sanctuary for the family, but that is also practical,’ says studio founder Silvia Roldan. ‘They gave us free reign to curate a collection of furniture, art and objects that worked with the eclecticism of the house.

1 month ago | design-anthology.com | Philip Annetta

‘The material palette is intentionally restrained; trowelled cement walls, poured concrete, steel and aluminium form the foundation of the design,’ Lin explains. ‘The materials are left mostly in their raw state, with visible imperfections that add depth and authenticity. The furniture and lighting selections were guided by the same philosophy, so they are minimalist yet sculptural.’Custom pieces also mark the space.