Located in Tainan’s historic downtown, this project involves the adaptive reuse of a four-story residential building with an existing metal-sheet rooftop addition, transforming it into a fashion design studio. Rather than a full renovation, the design adopts selective interventions—structural adjustments, spatial openings, and programmatic reorganization—that preserve the building’s original scale and urban character while supporting contemporary production workflows.

The ground floor addresses fabric delivery and tailoring activities. Along the alley, the façade is largely opened to bring in natural light and ventilation, transforming the previously enclosed space into a comfortable and fluid workspace. Large wall-mounted storage systems organize tools and threads efficiently, supporting an intuitive workflow and facilitating material handling and collaborative work. The interior stair, redesigned with a handrail inspired by stretched fabric, references the tension, support, and craftsmanship inherent in garment making, serving both as a formal metaphor and a distinctive spatial element.

The second floor primarily accommodates office functions, with storage volumes extending from the stair handrail to integrate vertical circulation and program. A new pantry and terrace provide moments of flexibility and relief, balancing the intensity of production activities and enhancing daily usability. Upper floors receive only minimal interventions, maintaining adaptability for photography and storage purposes.

Overall, the design establishes a clear vertical organization aligned with the studio’s operational workflow, from delivery and production to administration and photography. By opening the façade and carefully connecting interior spaces, the project reestablishes the building’s relationship with the alley and surrounding urban fabric. This approach allows the daily practices of fashion production to become a visible and integral part of the old city’s life, blending tradition with contemporary creative work.