Before & After: A Dilapidated Dormitory in Taipei Is Transformed Into a Lush Family Home

"Throughout the renovation, it was important to understand the cultural heritage of the Japanese elements and bring them back to life, and also understand what Taiwanese contractors can do," says Chu. "There is an amazing relationship between the house, the contractors, and us." The multipurpose family room connects, through a sliding wall, to the master bedroom, which leads out to the garden courtyard.