Reflective surfaces; connections with the site, such as using architecture as a frame for outside views; and the concept of “borrowed landscape” are a few of the design tools that Bercy Chen Studio applies to create unique spaces.

According to the architects, simple touches like incorporating a clear plastic pipe into the ceiling of a house to introduce a visible water element and display part of a rainwater-collection system confused contractors, who came back with an exorbitant price to follow through.