Hello, I'm Tim, the Design Director of Square Meter Design Studio (㎡ Design Studio) in Taiwan. Along with my fellow Design Director, Min, we co-founded the studio. Our philosophy centers on creating designs where space, people, and aesthetics complement one another. Through interior design, we aim to craft unique narratives within every space we shape—this concept is at the core of Square Meter's design approach. Our studio name was inspired by the initials “m” of both founders, Min and myself. “Square meter” symbolizes the fundamental unit of spatial planning, reflecting our commitment to meticulous attention to every detail in each project, without compromise. The name m² is not just “m + m,” but a representation of multiplied creativity and execution, reflecting the power of two designers working together.

Please introduce your signature project.

One of our representative projects is the commercial space Izakaya 9am 5pm, which won the K-DESIGN AWARD 2024. Another is a residential project called Apartment Lee. Izakaya 9am 5pm is a restaurant located in Tainan, Taiwan—an ancient capital rich in cultural heritage. Our design aimed to connect the space with the history of Tainan. We embraced raw, natural materials to highlight the humble charm of the city while adding depth to the interior. A key element of this project was the handcrafted concrete bar counter. After pouring the concrete, we invited the client to take part in the process, reinforcing the connection between client, customer, and space. Around the bar, we used copper plates and raw walnut veneer—materials that evolve over time, symbolizing Tainan’s cultural transformation through history. By preserving the building’s exterior tiles, terrazzo flooring, and the original staircase, we balanced historic traces with modern materials, allowing the restaurant to stand out gently amidst Tainan’s alleys and let diners immerse themselves in its nostalgic ambiance.

Apartment Lee, located in the tech-driven city of Hsinchu, was designed for a young couple of engineers. Our goal was to create a comfortable living environment infused with playful elements and color blocking. By strategically dividing the ceiling and walls, we created a clear spatial sequence. The use of layered volumes and color contrasts—such as a wide blue accent wall and orange translucent acrylic panels—added vibrancy and fun to the home. These elements, combined with axial alignment and spatial organization, resulted in a home that feels both orderly and expressive. Through these two design languages, we provided the couple with a living space that is both relaxing and uniquely theirs.

It seems like you're working on projects all across Taiwan. What strategies do you use to reach clients nationwide?

We share our work on social media and participate in various domestic and international design awards to increase brand recognition. Thanks to this, we receive inquiries from different regions, which allows us to reach a broader range of clients. Our main strategy for client acquisition is to pay close attention to detail in every project and provide excellent after-sales service. With a strong reputation, our satisfied clients often refer us to others!

How do you manage projects outside your local area?

When handling projects in other regions, we take time to research the unique local culture during the early design phase. We stay in the area for a few days to observe and experience the local architecture and interiors firsthand. This helps us generate more ideas and create designs that blend well with the regional context. Each region has its own construction culture and techniques, so we collaborate with local contractors for execution. This helps reduce transportation costs and offers mutual learning opportunities, enhancing our professional skills. Projects outside our home base are always exciting and serve as great opportunities for personal growth and company development.

What is your favorite stage in the design process?

The most enjoyable stage in the design process for us is the creative concept phase. At this stage, endless possibilities unfold, allowing us to freely explore various creative ideas. We love brainstorming, sketching, and building models to visualize initial concepts and share them with clients. This not only sparks inspiration but also helps us combine client needs and regional characteristics to craft unique design solutions. Watching ideas take shape and sharing that vision with the client is always an exciting and meaningful moment.

What would you like people to associate with Square Meter Design Studio?

For me, building a brand means creating a company that clients can trust and feel confident in. Most people purchase a home after years of hard work, so when they choose to entrust us with their space planning, it’s a deeply valued opportunity. That’s why we dedicate 100% of our effort to every project, meticulously working through even the smallest details—just like our name implies. I hope that when people think of ㎡ Design Studio, they not only recall beautiful spaces but also associate our brand with precision, personalized service, trust, reliability, and a deep sense of responsibility.