floating cloud-like ring by line+ studio hovers over chinese village

line+ studio unveils infrastructure in Chinese rural areas

Line+ Studio introduces Woven Passage to Cloudy Peaks and Sky Ring, two infrastructure installations that enhance Xiayanbei Village, China. Located on the eastern Zhejiang mountain ridge within the 19 Peaks Scenic Area, these projects are part of the first phase of a broader scenic area improvement initiative. The design addresses challenges commonly faced in rural development, such as limited funding, land scarcity, and lack of distinctiveness, by introducing a localized yet differentiated approach. Serving as an entrance and a landmark, these structures embody the cultural essence and natural beauty of the village while offering daily experiences for residents and visitors.

The Woven Passage to Cloudy Peaks reimagines the village’s entrance as a memorable passageway. Positioned at the curve where the road connects the areas of Houdaishan and Xiayanbei, it replaces traditional signage, creating an immersive entry experience. The Sky Ring, a central feature in the tea fields, serves as both a floating landmark and a functional weather balloon. Xiayanbei’s weather-dependent activities, such as mountain viewing, cloud watching, camping, and hiking, are supported by this installation, which provides accurate weather forecasts through its ascent and data collection.

all images by Arch-Exist Photography, courtesy of line+ studio, unless stated otherwise

Woven Passage to Cloudy Peaks & Sky Ring enhance the landscape

The site’s natural landscape, disrupted by previous road construction, necessitated an approach that would restore ecological balance. The Woven Passage to Cloudy Peaks by line+ studio, following the mountain’s slope, integrates with terraced retaining walls, utilizing natural materials to reconstruct the original landscape sustainably. Internally, the Chinese studio uses local bamboo weaving techniques and wooden supports to emphasize traditional craftsmanship, while externally, dark schist cladding allows the structure to blend into its surroundings. The passage’s design also addresses structural challenges, with precise curvature and stress analysis ensuring stability, all executed through advanced parametric design and local craftsmanship.

The design of the Sky Ring includes a helium balloon with a 30-meter outer diameter and a 5.5-meter inner diameter, secured by 16 cables and equipped with 33 RGBW LED lights to enhance the village’s nightlife. Constructed from laminated fabric film composite panels, the structure balances safety and durability, with its anchoring system ensuring stability in adverse weather conditions. The projects reflect Line+ Studio’s integration of Xiayanbei Village’s natural environment with its development needs.

sky ring is centrally located within the tea fields | image by line+ studio