Valley Retreat / Wang Weijen Architecture

Valley Retreat / Wang Weijen Architecture - Exterior Photography, ConcreteValley Retreat / Wang Weijen Architecture - Exterior PhotographyValley Retreat / Wang Weijen Architecture - Exterior Photography, WoodValley Retreat / Wang Weijen Architecture - Interior Photography, WoodValley Retreat / Wang Weijen Architecture - More Images+ 40

  • Design Principal: Wang Weijen
  • Project Architects : Su Chang, Halley Qian
  • Designers : Feng Li, Wang Ying
  • City: Jiyuan
  • Country: China
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Valley Retreat / Wang Weijen Architecture - Exterior Photography, Stairs
Courtesy of Wang Weijen Architecture

Text description provided by the architects. Xiaoyouhe Valley is a narrow river valley located at the foothills of Wangwu Mountain in Jiyuan, China. The natural ecology and agricultural settlements are still visible in the valley. To promote local cultural tourism, the design of the Valley Retreat rethinks the role that tourist facilities play in such an environment by integrating natural topography, vernacular building types, and rammed earth construction techniques. The subsequent design transforms abandoned farmland into an ecological and cultural retreat.

Valley Retreat / Wang Weijen Architecture - Exterior Photography, Concrete
Courtesy of Wang Weijen Architecture
Valley Retreat / Wang Weijen Architecture - Exterior Photography, Facade, Door
Courtesy of Wang Weijen Architecture

The design of the retreat considers existing vacant farmland and paddy field pattern. Taking four vacant farmhouses as the starting point, the renovation and addition develop a series of strategies to create courtyards in relationship with the landscape: enclosure, transformation, and extension. The inward-oriented courtyard is thus opened in dialogue with the surrounding landscape, extending a linear sequence of spaces along the river stream.

Valley Retreat / Wang Weijen Architecture - Exterior Photography
Courtesy of Wang Weijen Architecture

The system of architectural and landscape courtyards is programmed with 30 rooms and other public facilities. Through courtyards and alleyways, platforms and steps, ponds and woods, the retreat creates an experience for the visitors to immerse themselves within the natural environment.

Valley Retreat / Wang Weijen Architecture - Interior Photography, Wood
Courtesy of Wang Weijen Architecture
Valley Retreat / Wang Weijen Architecture - Interior Photography, Door
Courtesy of Wang Weijen Architecture

In terms of tectonics and materials, the design uses timer shutters to mediate the continuity from the front yards and balconies to the back alleys and backyards, regulating the solid-and-void relationship of the architecture while creating a continuous living experience of the natural environment.

Valley Retreat / Wang Weijen Architecture - Interior Photography, Bedroom, Windows, Wood
Courtesy of Wang Weijen Architecture

Particular design attention is paid to the articulation of roof tiles and timber structures, the coordination between the old and new rammed earth textures, the tectonic logic between the steel trusses and timber purlins and rafters, as well as the techniques of the masonry construction of the courtyard walls. The design thus establishes a sense of connectivity between the physical buildings, the natural environment, and a new culture of living.

Valley Retreat / Wang Weijen Architecture - Exterior Photography
Courtesy of Wang Weijen Architecture

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Project location

Address:Jiyuan, Henan, China

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Location to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address.
About this office
Cite: "Valley Retreat / Wang Weijen Architecture" 12 Jan 2021. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/954696/valley-retreat-wang-weijen-architecture> ISSN 0719-8884

Courtesy of Wang Weijen Architecture

小有河东岸民宿 / Wang Weijen Architecture

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