The design by davidclovers for the Bama Eco Resort includes two key areas of an eco-tourist resort project that intends to be a flagship project for China demonstrating how architecture can both re-work and reinvigorate sensitive habitat sites. Using innovative construction methods and design processes, both projects “farm” the existing terrain of the site finding its latent potentials. More images and architects’ description after the break.
Clad using a custom terracotta tile that is intended to blacken over time the arrivals building is mostly buried below grade, flanking the river. It is the gateway project for the property in numerous respects. Cars and buses are pushed below grade, threaded through and around a large bamboo light well and water collection pond. Here tourists coming to visit Bama Cave will see various exhibitions and retail outlets.
Covered with a green roof comprised of a series of earthen disc-skylights, daylight and artificial light emit different colors from the “native habitat garden” through skylights into the floors below. The garden, managing storm and gray water, is a collection point for tourists before and after their visit to the cave where glimpses of the major landmarks and tourists below are revealed.
Getting dropped off at grade, resort guests promenade through two historic trees into a recycled wood check-in area. Cantilevered over the river, this part of the building harnesses the sensorial aspects of the site. Using water’s reflection, sound and the color vegetation from the roof garden above, the building immerses guests in color, light and sound prior to their boat journey to the hotel.
An archipelago of differing speeds, depths, colors and textures of water for the therme area is set at the base of Bama cave and its source of water. Sprinkling landscape, lighting and small changing room buildings through a network of paths the therme uses small and large pools to coordinate differing zones of privacy and differing types of spa activities in the setting of the river.
Architects: davidclovers Location: Bama, Guangxi, China Design Team: David Erdman, Clover Lee, Mui Fuk Man, Jason Dembski, Damien Hannigan, Spencer Mak, Ziyin Zhou, Timmie Chan, Jody Luk Client: Huyau Type: 9500 sm Arrivals building and natural water Therme Status: Concept Design complete. On Hold
