Secluded from the hustle and bustle of Taipei, Yangmingshan has long been revered as an esteemed enclave for luminaries and bon vivants. Among them is the acclaimed fashion designer Jamei Chen.
Tucked away amidst vast woodlands, and accessible via a labyrinth of winding byways and hidden lanes, this glass-enclosed architectural masterpiece, blessed with a panoramic view of the Keelung River and the Shilin Plains beneath, is the second residence of fashion designer Jamei Chen, founder of lifestyle brand JAMEI CHEN. More than just a dwelling, it serves as a curated display space for Chen’s collection of globetrotting treasures she has amassed through her many travels. Join our Taiwan correspondent, Megan Huang, as she takes us inside Chen’s glass sanctuary and through the journeys that have inspired her life and work.
What prompted you to move here?
I’m acquainted with the previous tenant – designer Ray Chen. I took over this house at the beginning of 2022. When Ray was living here, he established an excellent living environment for the house. The appeal of this house is not just its tranquil surroundings, but also the way the architecture respects the natural environment. The house’s harmony with nature enhances its comfort, making it a delightful place to live in.
What are the perks of having this second home?
Growing up in the sticks of Puli, Nantou, this home is like a little slice of back-to-nature for me. It's not just a wellspring of inspiration for my fashion designs, it's my personal chill-out zone when I need a breather. Plus, it's the go-to venue for my private shindigs. I love having a place where I can invite my close friends and long-term clients to kick back and catch up.
Can you share the stories behind the intriguing pieces of furniture we see here?
I’ve been in the fashion design industry for over 30 years, and my focus has always been on fabrics and textiles. Many pieces you see here are a keepsake, a memory, collected on my many travels.
I have a penchant for seeking out the finest cashmere or unique home accents on my travels, particularly when I’m in the southern regions of France or India. These items find their place in my home, adorning chairs or beds. I also have a fascination with sourcing delicate fabrics or light fixtures crafted from silk cocoons, as I find they imbue my home with a sense of warmth and texture.
Why the prominent African influence in your collection? What sets them apart?
A trip to Paris over thirty years ago was a turning point for me. It brought to light how African furniture can elevate French residential and commercial interiors. The artistic finesse of these pieces sparked a passion within me. Since then, I’ve been amassing African art objects that have now turned into a collection in the hundreds.
My early fascination was those crafted from African ivory. But over time, I found myself more attracted to those with a playful, whimsical touch, such as home decor reminiscent of owls and crocodiles.
How has travelling inspired you?
Travelling pushes me out of my comfort zone, immersing me in a variety of diverse cultures. The cultural shock that comes with it is immense and these experiences stimulate my creativity and foster out-of-the-box thinking.
This is why I often gravitate towards countries steeped in ancient culture such as Turkey and Egypt. India, a place I’ve visited over a dozen times, remains a constant source of fresh inspiration for me.
What are your future travel plans?
A documentary about Africa sparked my interest, particularly the part about many animals there facing extinction. It stirred something in me, and I’ve decided to help these animals after I retire.
I’ve got a trip to Kenya planned for next year because a friend of mine is opening a hotel there. I’m also looking forward to experiencing the awe-inspiring landscapes of Africa, from its dense tropical jungles to its vast savannahs.
