CHON BURI || A Journey Through GaoZhuang: Where Design Meets Dai Ethnic Culture
Tucked away in GaoZhuang, the cradle of the Dai ethnic culture, is a destination that intertwines architecture and nature, paying homage to Xishuangbanna's rich cultural tapestry and the treasures of nature.
Strolling through the central promenade of the project, one can't help but notice the purposeful distinction between the two structures, each housing a unique business, yet connected by more than just a corridor. On one side lies a sanctuary of rejuvenation—the spa center, bathed in the serene beauty of minimalism. Its design strips away the chaos, offering visitors an atmosphere of tranquil simplicity. Opposite this oasis of calm stands a culinary paradise—the restaurant, inspired by the omnipresent leaves of the local rainforest.
The airy corridor leading to the spa center.
It is evident that "taking inspiration from nature" isn't just a concept but a guiding principle in this architectural project. Leaves, often overlooked in their ubiquity, become symbols of vitality here. The design mirrors the continuity and balance these leaves maintain in the rainforest. The materials used, from green slate stones to wooden accents, are a conscious nod to nature, ensuring minimal intrusion and preserving the organic beauty of the environment.
The restaurant's interior captures the essence of the rainforest. With carefully placed wooden bridges and lush greenery, it beckons diners into an immersive journey, a dining experience reminiscent of a walk in the woods. The rich wooden and bamboo furniture complements the setting, bringing to life the heartbeats of the rainforest.
The architecture is inspired by the shapes of leaves found in the local tropical rainforest.
The central courtyard epitomizes the harmony between interior and exterior spaces. Encased by nature, whether through trees or the rustic charm of red bricks, it blurs the line between the built and the natural. This space is more than just an architectural feature; it's a portal to nature, a haven where one can truly embrace the peace and allure nature offers.
The central courtyard.
Within the restaurant's interior, small wooden bridges and green slate stones are artfully arranged, enveloped by luxuriant foliage.
Perhaps the most commendable aspect of the project is its commitment to the indigenous life of the rainforest. Each stone has been turned with consideration for the ecosystem. From preserving the avian homes to every minute design detail, there's an evident desire to seamlessly honour and meld with the surrounding environment.
The Chon Buri project in GaoZhuang is more than just buildings and spaces. It's an experience, a bridge between humanity and nature, and a reminder that architectural design can be innovative and respectful. Whether seeking the spa's therapeutic quiet or the restaurant's sensory delight, you're guaranteed an encounter with nature's purest form right in the heart of GaoZhuang.
Deep inside the forest, there is no clear line to define the beginning and end of art and nature.
PROJECT DETAILS
Project Name: Chon Buri
Project Location: Gaozhuang, Xishuangbanna, China
Project Area: 1700㎡
Design Time: 2022.03
Completion Time: 2023.02
Design Team: Funs Design
Space Director: Luo Bin
Copywriting: Zhang Hongming, Zhou Zengni
Photography: Yu Photography
