The largest loess plateau is situated in Northwest China, where people have inhabited for thousands of years. This region has been recognized as one of the most challenging environments for habitation due to its extremely dry climate and expansive loess deposits. Consequently, it is arduous to engage in agriculture or cultivate vegetation, and altering the environment is nearly impossible.
Nevertheless, the resourceful residents of this area devised a sustainable solution many years ago. They excavated the loose loess mountains and built dwellings within the resulting caves. These caves offer excellent insulation during winter and provide shade in the summer. This sustainable housing approach has been passed down through generations and has proven to be more comfortable when compared to newly constructed brick houses, which may appear more modern but are less suitable for the local conditions.
Living in caves does have its drawbacks, however. The main source of light is limited to the entrance, especially before the introduction of electricity, and the arched ceilings can make the space feel low. Therefore, I aim to design fabrics specifically tailored for the interiors of these caves, with the goal of brightening up the space and enhancing the overall living experience. By alleviating the structural constraints, I hope to inspire the residents to appreciate and enjoy their living environment even more, rather than succumbing to the temptation of moving to new brick houses that are not well-suited for the extreme weather conditions of the region.
online photos for inspiration and reference, all rights reserved to the artists.
This collection is dedicated to bringing light into the space of the loess caves through bold contrast. Vibrant fabrics and designs work together to transform the interiors, illuminating these ancient dwellings. Golden yellows, fiery oranges, and vigorous magenta breathe life into the caves, turning them into vibrant sanctuaries that inspire appreciation and joy and create an uplifting experience.
In this collection, serene blues bestows tranquility and expansive grace like gentle waves and a chill breeze. They weave a tapestry of calmness, inviting the mind to wander. This journey of fabric is one of progression and gradient. Through the interplay of hues and textures, the collection harmonizes with the cave's ancient walls and invites inhabitants to embrace the transformative power of their surroundings.
Turquoise, an unexpected guest in desolate terrain, breathes life into the bleakness. A color unseen, it intrudes and expands the space, infusing a vibrant embrace.
Within these samples, a glimpse of purple emerges, entwined with glitch and transparency. Woven with monofilament warp, they explore a dreamy, experimental realm.
Mock-ups of dobby fabrics are based on found photos that portray the residence realistically.
