shulin architectural design sets stone + wood hotel within an ancient village in china

located in an ancient mountain village in jinhua, china, the qingxiao residence by shulin architectural design is a hotel built in local materials, such as stone and wood, which help integrate it within the vernacular architecture. the project, which is surrounded by traditional dwellings of rammed earth walls and wood, is built on a stone platform that elevates it from the public road below, while several terraces between its different volumes bring guests closer to the natural landscape. the hotel incorporates local techniques and materials, including masonry blocks, bamboo, old stone slabs, recycled old wooden boards, and terrazzo, all of which contribute to a more sustainable approach in its construction.

all images by yilong zhao

shulin architectural design has blended the hotel within the ancient chinese village by embracing vernacular architecture characteristics, such as the change in volume and roof direction as the mountainous terrain changes. as such, the building’s mass has been broken down into smaller volumes, where each one differs in size and direction. the entire hotel is set on a stone platform, similar to many traditional homes in the area, while a gradual approach to the main entrance allows guests to assimilate the height different in relationship to the terrain. at the same time, this route, where various turns lead to different areas of the hotel, recreates the walking experience through the ancient village.

the use of local materials forms the construction strategy of the qingxiao residence, which incorporates small green tiles recovered from the village, the original building’s rammed earth walls, masonry blocks, bamboo, old stone slabs, recycled old wooden boards, and terrazzo. ‘the continuation of local memories and construction methods is a sign of respect to the wisdom of rural craftsmen and the inheritance of traditional construction techniques,’ explains shulin architectural design. ‘it also promotes a concept of regeneration and localization of rural construction.’

the introduction of nature into the building is another important design element. all guest rooms feature large windows facing the terraces and mountains, maximizing exterior views within the interior. additionally, the hotel’s common facilities can easily be opened to the outside, and elements such as trees, water, and green terraces bring nature further inside the building. the entire volume is arranged according to the surrounding topography, while many small holes for ventilation and line of sight have been opened on the peripheral wall. as a result, natural air flows within the spaces, while the chosen materials help relieve the building from extreme heat that occurs during the summer. in addition, the water surface of the nearby creek and the shade of ancient trees strengthen the microclimate cycle of the structure.

last, a small public toilet that was originally on the site and belonged to the collective use of the villagers has been turned into a semi-open pavilion facing the ancient trees and streams. hoping to return this zone to the public realm, the architects have created this area for villagers to sit freely and chat. at the same time, the pavilion has another function during the evening, when it lights up like a lantern, lighting the way home for local residents.