The Elevator That Becomes a Wine Cabinet: Pei Wen Lu’s Design Experimentation

This recognition has strengthened my confidence in my direction and values, while allowing my supporters to better understand my design philosophy. It also gives me a stronger sense of responsibility and motivation to continue creating spaces that help families realise their ideal lifestyles.

This achievement has been a great encouragement for our team. It helped them understand that my strictness and attention to detail come from a clear intention and passion for quality. With increased visibility, our creative platform has expanded, bringing more diverse opportunities and challenges.

I approach design with an experimental mindset. When the team feels an idea may be difficult to achieve, I often test it in my own home first. For example, I designed the elevator exterior as a concealed wine cabinet. When guests visit, opening the cabinet reveals that it is actually an elevator. Such experiments expand the possibilities and bring a sense of surprise to design.

I often draw inspiration from nature, especially the movement of rain and the changing forms of mist and clouds. The layers and emotions found in these natural phenomena often become the starting point of my designs.

I wish more people understood that the simpler a design appears, the more complex and refined the process behind it usually is. Just like the beauty of nature, which seems effortless but reveals its depth only through careful observation and appreciation.

The key lies in two-way communication. I take time to understand the client’s preferences and expectations, while also helping them understand the designer’s vision and professional perspective. Mutual trust helps us find the right balance.

One of the biggest challenges comes from clients’ highly imaginative ideas. Through thorough communication, we transform what seems impossible into motivation for innovation. Customised solutions and professional integration help turn their vision into reality.

When I experience a creative block, I turn off my phone and spend time in nature. The quiet environment helps me reset, clear my mind, and reconnect with inspiration.

I believe every space should reflect the client’s values and life journey. I translate their personal stories and characteristics into a design language that truly belongs to them.

Do not be afraid to explore new ideas or make mistakes. Every attempt and every correction become valuable nourishment for growth.

If I had the opportunity, I would choose to collaborate with Mr. Song Wen-Yao. He has helped me see the true essence of design. He is thoughtful, attentive, and open-minded, never fixated on a single perspective. Instead, he listens carefully and thoughtfully to every idea, guiding the conversation toward a more mature and comprehensive design direction.

I wish people would ask, “Why are you willing to invest so much in details?”

For example, the refined embedded lines in the entrance, or customised elements that were rebuilt after an initial failure. Although this approach can be costly, such persistence is what allows a design to reach its ideal state.