Architectural Cases

House C: A Seaside Apartment Reimagined by XStudio

XStudio has embarked on a remarkable architectural endeavor with House C, a project that redefines the concept of compact urban living. This renovation masterfully transforms a modest 32 square meter apartment into a spacious, luminous environment, deeply connected to the breathtaking seascape. Through intelligent design, the original fragmented layout has been unified, eliminating unnecessary barriers to create a flowing, expansive interior. The result is a home that maximizes both visual appeal and functional space, offering a serene retreat that celebrates its coastal surroundings.

Embracing the Horizon: An Urban Oasis Reimagined

The Vision: Crafting an Open and Luminous Dwelling

The core philosophy behind House C's redesign was to dissolve the constraints of its original, compartmentalized structure. By stripping away non-essential walls and divisions, the architects at XStudio aimed to cultivate a sense of continuity and openness throughout the apartment. This strategic simplification allows for an unhindered visual flow, drawing the eye towards the exterior and establishing a powerful connection with the expansive ocean vista.

Redefining Spatial Boundaries: The Continuous Interior Landscape

In its initial state, House C suffered from an irregular and fragmented layout that hindered both light penetration and a sense of spaciousness. The renovation meticulously addresses these issues by creating a singular, cohesive space. This deliberate removal of internal barriers allows the apartment to be perceived as one unified volume, enhancing its luminosity and the occupant's engagement with the surrounding environment.

The Autonomous Sanctuary: A Private Enclave Within the Open Plan

Despite the overarching theme of openness, the design carefully integrates a private zone within the apartment. The bathroom, envisioned as a self-contained cabin, is the sole enclosed area. This thoughtful arrangement ensures essential privacy while reinforcing the overall perception of the apartment as a unified, yet functionally diverse, living space. Its distinct presence accentuates the fluidity of the main living areas.

Le Belvédère Restaurant: A Culinary Haven with Panoramic Views by Rudy Guénaire

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Crillon-le-Brave, Provence, Le Belvédère restaurant stands as a testament to exceptional design and culinary artistry. This expansive 200-seat establishment, envisioned by designer Rudy Guénaire and managed by the renowned Vertigo group, offers patrons an unparalleled dining experience amidst the serene beauty of nature, with sweeping vistas of the iconic Mont Ventoux.

The design ethos of Le Belvédère prioritizes integration with its breathtaking natural environment. Every element, from the material choices to the spatial arrangement, contributes to a harmonious dialogue between the built structure and its surroundings. The result is a space that feels both sophisticated and inherently connected to the Provençal landscape, offering a tranquil escape for its guests.

Rudy Guénaire's architectural vision for Le Belvédère goes beyond mere aesthetics. He has crafted an environment that enhances the culinary journey, allowing diners to fully immerse themselves in the flavors and the views. The thoughtful layout and selection of furnishings create an inviting and comfortable ambiance, making it a destination for both casual meals and special occasions.

The Vertigo group, celebrated for its pioneering approach to Parisian bistronomy and unwavering commitment to exceptional product sourcing, brings its culinary expertise to Le Belvédère. This dedication to quality ingredients is perfectly complemented by the restaurant's setting, where the fresh, local produce can be savored in an authentic Provençal atmosphere.

Opened in 2024, Le Belvédère covers an area of 420 square meters, providing ample space for its numerous guests without compromising on intimacy or comfort. The interior photography by Ludovic Balay beautifully captures the warmth of the wood, the elegant lighting, and the inviting arrangement of tables and chairs, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail in its design.

Le Belvédère is more than just a restaurant; it is a destination where architectural elegance, natural beauty, and gastronomic excellence converge to create memorable moments for every visitor. Its strategic location, thoughtful design, and commitment to quality make it a standout establishment in the vibrant culinary scene of Provence.

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The Douban Museum: Weaving Tradition and Modernity in Sichuan's Landscape

The Douban Museum in Chengdu, China, designed by CSWADI, stands as a testament to the seamless integration of traditional agricultural heritage with contemporary architectural forms. Located in the fertile Dujiangyan irrigation area, known for its historic farming practices and modern sauce industry, the museum embodies the distinctive 'Linpan' landscape characterized by scattered farmhouses nestled within woodlands and bamboo groves. This project not only showcases the region's rich cultural narrative but also champions ecological preservation as a core design principle, creating a harmonious dialogue between the built environment and its pristine natural surroundings.

A Symphony of Heritage and Innovation: The Douban Museum Experience

Embracing the Spirit of Linpan: A Design Rooted in Nature

Situated in the verdant Dujiangyan irrigation zone, a region celebrated for its dual legacy of traditional agriculture and pioneering sauce production, the Douban Museum finds its home amidst an ecological tapestry of forests and bamboo. This setting deeply inspired the project's foundational commitment to ecological conservation, mirroring the organic and dispersed settlement patterns characteristic of Western Sichuan's 'Linpan' landscape. The architectural vision sought to not only respect but also enhance this natural heritage, ensuring that the museum became an integral, unobtrusive part of its environment.

Architectural Dialogue: Marrying Tradition with Modernity

The museum's design by CSWADI is a thoughtful exploration of how traditional elements can be reinterpreted through a modern lens. Instead of imposing a foreign structure, the architects drew inspiration from local vernacular architecture, particularly the pitched roofs and courtyard layouts common in the area. This approach aimed to create a building that feels both familiar and forward-thinking, allowing visitors to connect with the region's past while experiencing contemporary design. The structure's form and materials were chosen to resonate with the existing landscape, promoting a sense of continuity and belonging.

A Sanctuary for Culture and Ecology: The Douban Museum's Dual Role

More than just a repository of history, the Douban Museum functions as a living monument to the cultural and ecological richness of its locale. It serves as a focal point for understanding the intricate relationship between human activity, traditional crafts, and the natural world. The integration of the museum within its forested and bamboo-laden setting underscores a dedication to sustainable practices and highlights the importance of preserving the unique ecological identity of the Dujiangyan area, offering both a cultural experience and an environmental lesson.

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