Revitalizing Tradition: The Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon Resort

He Zhou's Award-Winning Design Breathes New Life into a Historic Village

The resort's design draws inspiration from the rich history of Suichang, home to the world-renowned "Peony Pavilion" by Tang Xianzu, often referred to as the Oriental Shakespeare. The village, nestled in the mountains and isolated from the world, provided a unique canvas for He Zhou's innovative design. The goal was not just to create a resort, but to breathe new life into the village through art and culture.

What sets the Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon Resort apart is its integration of artwork and traditional objects into the interior decorations. The design retains the primitive simplicity of the village while incorporating functionality and modern style. Local bamboo and green plants serve as natural decorations, creating a harmonious connection between the interior and the exterior landscape. The past is etched into every old beam, column, brick wall, and hand-polished furniture, creating a tangible link to the village's history.

The resort was realized using locally sourced materials, including old elm, bamboo, and celadon. The furniture, made from locally recycled aged wood, is a testament to the resort's commitment to sustainability and respect for the local environment. The use of these materials not only pays homage to the local culture but also creates a unique blend of classic and modern aesthetics.

Despite the challenges posed by the natural geographical barriers and rugged mountainous terrain, He Zhou and his team were able to create a resort that not only provides a tranquil escape for urban residents but also integrates seamlessly with the local ecology and environment. This project is a perfect example of how design can be used to enhance and preserve the natural beauty of a location.

The Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon Resort is more than just a design project; it is a celebration of the rich cultural history of Suichang and a testament to the transformative power of design. It is no surprise that this innovative design was awarded the Golden A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2020, a prestigious accolade reserved for designs that reflect extraordinary excellence and significantly impact the world with their desirable characteristics.