Architectural Cases

In a harmonious blend of innovative design and natural splendor, a newly unveiled architectural marvel in China is drawing attention. This structure, envisioned by a renowned studio, serves as both a picturesque observation point and a welcoming respite for travelers. Its distinctive circular form, adorned with a concrete exterior imprinted with bamboo patterns, seamlessly integrates into the mountainous terrain, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the breathtaking vistas.

New Architectural Landmark Unveiled in Huizhou: The 'Resting Loop with Views' Pavilion

In the vibrant city of Huizhou, China, the visionary architects at HCCH Studio have recently unveiled a stunning new structure known as the 'Resting Loop with Views' pavilion. Perched gracefully on Mount Luofu, this architectural creation occupies a strategic platform that previously functioned as a buffer zone and parking area, extending from a winding highway bend. The pavilion's primary purpose is to offer an exceptional vantage point for appreciating the majestic mountain ranges and serene rivers that encircle it. Furthermore, it incorporates a welcoming cafe and a convenient parking facility, catering specifically to enthusiastic cyclists exploring the region.

The pavilion's striking design, described by Shanghai-based HCCH Studio as reminiscent of 'a UFO hovering low over a stone platform,' is supported by three robust concrete volumes. Its upper level is ingeniously designed in a doughnut shape, boasting an impressive outer diameter of 16 meters. This circular platform is punctuated by a series of oval openings of varying sizes, meticulously carved into its exterior. These openings are strategically angled to frame diverse and captivating views of the picturesque landscape, encouraging visitors to embark on a leisurely stroll around the upper ring, where each turn reveals a new scenic panorama.

Adding to its unique aesthetic, the exterior surface of the pavilion was meticulously cast in-situ using molds crafted from locally sourced bamboo. This innovative technique has resulted in a distinctive ribbed texture, mimicking the natural patterns of bamboo, which elegantly contrasts with the smooth, unblemished interior surfaces. At the precise points where these contrasting finishes converge along the edges of the oval openings, a subtle ruffled effect is created, further accentuating the rich bamboo texture.

Beneath the captivating doughnut-shaped structure, a tranquil sunken plaza beckons visitors to relax. Here, the talented Shanghai artist Su Chang has contributed a series of sculptural stone chairs, collectively termed 'social stones,' which form a central focal point. This shaded resting area, nestled directly beneath the suspended ring, provides a cool sanctuary. The pavilion's three supporting concrete volumes discreetly house essential facilities: a cafe, public restrooms, and storage spaces, with their entrances and windows thoughtfully oriented towards one another, fostering a sense of community and ease of access. The dark, hammered finishes applied to these volumes harmoniously complement the plaza's stone paving and the distinctive sculptural chairs, creating a cohesive and inviting atmosphere.

HCCH Studio, established in 2018 by Hao Chen and Chenchen Hu, has garnered significant acclaim, including the prestigious 'emerging architect of the year' award at Dezeen Awards China 2024. Their recent portfolio also features a captivating shell-like brick pavilion in Longyou County, China, and the innovative Twisting Tower and Spiral Station, integral components of the Shanghai Lingang Ecological Restoration Project.

All photographic documentation for this project was expertly captured by Qingyan Zhu, unless otherwise specified.

This architectural achievement by HCCH Studio demonstrates a profound understanding of how to integrate human-made structures with the environment in a way that enhances the visitor's experience while respecting the natural beauty of the surroundings. The 'Resting Loop with Views' is not merely a building; it is a thoughtful intervention that invites contemplation, connection with nature, and a fresh perspective on the landscape. It serves as a reminder that architecture, when approached with creativity and sensitivity, can elevate our engagement with the world around us.

Belgian architectural practice Felt has completed a significant refurbishment of a mid-century residence in Ghent, Belgium. This project, known as 'Dani\u00ebl,' involved thoughtfully reconfiguring the 315-square-meter bungalow to better accommodate the dynamics of modern family life, all while meticulously preserving the distinctive rectilinear brickwork and overall aesthetic that define its mid-century heritage. The transformation is highlighted by the addition of a striking central 'compact tower,' which now houses a new entrance and a circulation core, notably clad in vibrant blue ceramic tiles. This innovative design solution addresses previous spatial inefficiencies, enhancing both functionality and visual appeal across the property. The intervention showcases Felt's ability to blend historical respect with contemporary architectural demands, making the home a seamless fusion of past and present.

Revitalizing Mid-Century Aesthetics and Functionality

The architectural firm Felt embarked on a transformative project in Ghent, Belgium, reimagining a 315-square-meter mid-century bungalow. Named 'Dani\u00ebl,' this renovation was conceived to upgrade the home for contemporary family life, carefully integrating modern conveniences without compromising the distinct rectilinear, white-painted brick structure that characterized its original mid-century charm. A pivotal aspect of this redesign involved addressing an previously awkward circulation hub at the property's core. By introducing a "compact tower" adorned with blue ceramic tiles, Felt successfully created a more fluid and inviting entry sequence and staircase, significantly improving the home's spatial dynamics and visual connectivity. This strategic addition not only enhanced the internal flow but also paid homage to the building's historical integrity, blending new elements seamlessly with existing features.

Felt's renovation of the 'Dani\u00ebl' bungalow centered on enhancing its livability while maintaining its inherent mid-century appeal. The studio's primary focus was the central "circulation knot" of the home's T-shaped plan, a previously constrained area where the single-story living space intersected with a split-level bedroom wing. To resolve this, a distinctive "compact tower" was meticulously crafted at the heart of the residence. This tower, enveloped in brilliant blue ceramic tiles, not only introduces an ochre-colored staircase and strategically placed high-level windows, but it also serves as a vertical anchor that draws natural light deep into the interior, illuminating what was once a rather obscure transition point. This architectural intervention transforms the central space into a clear, prominent node, enhancing the home's internal presence and creating a more welcoming approach from the street.

Innovative Spatial Reconfiguration and Material Harmony

The lower section of the Dani\u00ebl residence leverages its advantageous placement between two distinct garden areas. Expansive glass doors, framed by elegant rust-colored aluminum, provide direct access to a pair of patios, seamlessly connecting the interior with the outdoors. This thoughtful design integrates a large, open-plan area that comfortably accommodates living, dining, and kitchen functions, fostering an environment of continuous flow and natural light. Inside, a subtly toned cement floor extends this sense of openness, linking the indoor spaces with the adjacent patios. This material choice not only enhances the bright, airy feel of the relatively low-slung volume but is also complemented by cedar plank ceilings, which introduce a warm, natural texture, further blurring the lines between the interior and exterior environments and creating a harmonious living experience.

Within the adjacent split-level section of the Dani\u00ebl home, the lower floor is strategically dedicated to storage and utility areas, featuring a direct street-level entrance. This access point was optimized by repurposing a segment of the former driveway, which was unpaved and subsequently fitted with practical bicycle storage solutions. Moving to the upper level, the bedrooms showcase a serene and tactile design, characterized by timber-lined walls and tranquil green linoleum floors, evoking a calm atmosphere. The material selections throughout the interior reflect a contemporary interpretation of classic mid-century design principles. Externally, the original timber windows were replaced with rust-colored aluminum frames, echoing the existing material palette while providing enhanced modern performance and durability, ensuring a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing renovation.