Art Farm: A Blend of East and West in a Unique Guest House

Chen Xu and Gabriele Goretti Create an Immersive Artistic Experience in Nanjing

The Art Farm guest house is situated in Nanjing's Sujia creative town, an area known for its natural beauty and popularity among city dwellers seeking a weekend getaway. The guest house is part of a trend in the town where homeowners are transforming their farmhouses into unique accommodations. The owner of Art Farm aimed to offer guests more than just a place to stay; they wanted to provide an artistic experience.

The design of the guest house is heavily influenced by Art Deco aesthetics and Jiangnan elements, creating a blend of Chinese and Western luxury. The use of brass elements and abstract geometric shapes throughout the guest house gives it a distinctive atmosphere and a sense of continuity across the rooms. The walls are adorned with resina, a type of paint, adding to the artistic ambiance.

Spanning an area of about 1200 square meters, the guest house includes a reception area, a multifunctional room, a dining room, and several guest rooms. Each room is unique, featuring playful details such as brass elements reminiscent of the Art Deco style and Bluestone Slab tiles that hark back to ancient Chinese times. The furniture and curtains are in bold colors, further enhancing the immersive artistic experience.

The project, which began in September 2018 and was completed in April 2019, faced several challenges. The transformation of a farmhouse into an art house required a delicate balance between preserving the original structure and infusing it with a new aesthetic. Moreover, the project had to be completed within a limited budget. Despite these challenges, the design team managed to create a unique space that offers guests an immersive experience of art.

The Art Farm guest house is not just a place to stay; it's a temporary home, a meeting point, a regeneration and recreational center, and a base camp for families, sportsmen, and connoisseurs. It's a testament to the power of design in transforming spaces and creating unique experiences. The guest house was awarded Silver in A' Hospitality, Recreation, Travel and Tourism Design Award in 2020, a testament to its innovative design and the immersive experience it offers.