For the 2021 edition of AD Casa, open from 18 April - 3 May, AD China invited Neri&Hu to re-examine the concept of "domesticity" with an exhibition at House 19, a typical Siheyuan in Beijing. Using a series of philosophical questions as the starting point for their design, Neri&Hu created a project that rethinks, restructures, and reflects preconceived ideas of "home" such as shelter, privacy, intimacy and sense of security.

The exhibition, entitled "Reflective Domesticity" and presented in collaboration with Design Republic, connected on an emotional level with visitors and encouraged them to find for themselves what domesticity means to them.

Neri&Hu conceptualised six rooms, each with its own theme, beginning with "Extrospection" and "Introspection", "Curiosity", "Pain", "Restoration" and finally "Memory." These themes aimed to communicate dualities within the range of emotions and feelings one can have with "home".

Below are images of each room, accompanied by the designers' explanations of each space.

All photography of AD Casa by Tian Fangfang
Above film by AD China
Top image: Solo Bed by Neri&Hu

Home is where we feel the most comfortable and free. Whether we feel this freedom through our bodies or our minds, home is where we most often examine ourselves deeply, inside and out. Perhaps it is strange that when we close ourselves off from the outside world, we simultaneously open up to ourselves. Self-reflection and self-criticism can both bring discomfort and shame upon ourselves. However, deep awareness brings feelings of warmth, optimism, and contentment.

Top image: Solo Sofa by Neri&Hu

We are fascinated and attracted to things that ignite our sense of curiosity. We are most familiar with and accustomed to the objects that occupy our home. However, changing the angle in which we view those objects can result in new perspectives. Our imaginations for these objects result in endless scopes of thought where we can envision moments that have passed as a result of a scent, think deeply about the world we inhabit, and even reimagine everyday objects to assist in our daydreaming.

Commune Stool by Neri&Hu

People are all born as thinkers. However, with introspection, extrospection, and curiosity comes inevitable feelings of pain. Thinking invites feelings of confusion, regret, and frustration. However, experiencing and living through the pain is more often than not what allows us to emerge from the other side, thinking clearer, despite the chaos that surrounds us. At night, the pain that we feel briefly leaves us as we sleep and rejuvenate for the daytime where we aim to heal and find strength all within the place we call "home".

Top image: Trunk Tall Cabinet by Neri&Hu
Lower image: Petit 3 Chair and Handle Side Table by Neri&Hu

Whether it is the tea set that is used each night by the family or the round table in which New Year's dinner is consumed, the objects in the home and the space we call home are key witnesses for everyday memories like chatting, eating, relaxing, and laughing with family.

Solo Lounge Chair, Shaker Dining Chair, and Trio Side Table by Neri&Hu