Fourteen a.m.
The Way of Homes: The Entry
(歸途 - The Path of Return)
千里之行，始於足下
A journey of a thousand miles begins beneath one's feet
Laozi
(The importance of mindful transitions and grounding)
Ancient Chinese Wisdom:
The principle of "欲揚先抑" teaches us that to truly appreciate elevation, we must first experience humility. In classical Chinese gardens, this manifests through carefully orchestrated spatial sequences. The garden concept of "柳暗花明" shows us how moments of containment can lead to beautiful revelations - just as dark willow branches frame the bright flowers beyond. This mirrors Laozi's wisdom "千里之行，始於足下" - reminding us that even the grandest journey begins with a mindful first step.
Japanese Spatial Poetry:
The Japanese architectural tradition further refines this understanding through 降り口 (points of descent) and 上がり口 (points of ascent). In tea house design, the humble 躙口 (nijiriguchi) entrance requires guests to bow as they enter, physically preparing them for the ceremony ahead. This conscious lowering of oneself creates a profound shift in mindset.
fourteen a.m. design principles:
In our City Sanctuaries, we weave these Eastern philosophies into contemporary design solutions. We choreograph your entrance sequence through:
Thoughtful compression and release of space
Material transitions that ground you in the present moment
Level changes that slow your pace
Seating encouraging momentary pause
Considered sightlines that reveal your sanctuary gradually
Each element works in harmony to help you transition from the external world into your restorative space. The entrance becomes not just a passage, but a moment of meditation in built form.
-
Description text goes here
-
Description text goes here
-
Description text goes here
-
Item description
-
Item description