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SHELF LIFE The custom curio cabinet is the architect's interpretation of a dining room buffet. The engineered walnut shelves match the kitchen cabinets. This elegant, open-concept design resulted in the abandonment of traditional plans including room divisions and even the barriers of interior and exterior space. As a result of the unique topography of the site, the living area is designed to flow into a sleek wooden deck merging outside and in. A wall of nine-foot-high windows binds the deck to the luxurious indoor living area and can be opened to unify the two spaces. CULTURE FUSION While many Chinese homeowners who settle in British Columbia are preoccupied with perfecting the art of feng shui, Li and Guo adopted a more relaxed approach to design. The home may appear to have a subtle Asian influence to the untrained eye, but special care was given to weave in elements of feng shui. Becoming familiar with the intricate Chinese art, centred on placement and flow, was a learning curve for Henshaw, but something he has perfected after a number of years in the business. For example, when you walk in a front door, the p16-21 Li Lui home.indd 21 stairs should not be seen. Upon entering a bedroom, the foot of the bed must first be visible, as opposed to the side. "With feng shui," adds Chao, "you don't want the front door streamlined to the back door. When you do that, all the good energy is coming in and then going out the back door right away." SOCIAL HUB Li and Guo's home has become a hub for family and friends for activities ranging from wine tasting to video gaming. Simple furnishings are combined with rich bursts of colour from plants, accessories and art commissioned especially for the home. Li describes this space, complete with a volcanic ash bath and functional Chinese kitchen, as their dream home. Elegance and light is underpinned by comfort and practicality resulting in a space of low-key luxury and a fusion of tradition and contemporary. ■ STYLIST Maureen Willick See SOURCES on page 42 13-06-07 11:34 AM