One of the standout features of this design is its three distinct divisions. The treehouse area, facing the serene river, provides a tranquil and undisturbed retreat. The united residence area encourages mingling and shared interests among guests. Finally, the assembly hall serves as a dining and conference space, adding versatility to the lodge's offerings. Connecting these areas are pathways reminiscent of leaf veins, leading guests to breathtaking scenery adorned with water and wood elements.
Shun Chih Chen's design showcases a remarkable realization of technology. The lodge is constructed as a treehouse unit, with the first floor housing the Garden Room. This space, connected to a brook, features a living room and an outdoor bathing area. The garden room's main structure is reinforced concrete, complemented by air-faced concrete. The treehouse itself is supported by six cylinders, elevating the 12-square meter tree box from the second to the third floor.
The designer's attention to detail is evident in the creation of a wild hunting field ambiance. Through the strategic use of lighting, shadows, and natural elements such as mountains, rivers, and forests, guests are immersed in an atmosphere of adventure and exploration. The carefully designed flow pattern guides guests to discover hidden treasures and shimmering lights, fostering interaction and engagement. The raw cement bare walls and wood accents further enhance the lodge's natural aesthetic.
Interacting with the design is an integral part of the experience. The pathways, adorned with obsidian and carbonized cork, evoke the essence of a gloomy forest. Varying thickness, width, length, and three-dimensional collage techniques at a 30-degree angle create a captivating visual effect. The choice of Northern European-style furniture and the inclusion of an outdoor bathtub contribute to a comfortable ambiance, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces and infusing the lodge with passion, warmth, and joy.
This exceptional design finds its home next to the 11th River in Sun Moon Lake, Yuchi Township, Nantou County, Taiwan. The project's duration reflects the meticulous research and planning that went into its creation. Hunting, as a noble pursuit, served as the inspiration, symbolizing the chase for one's inner soul and the balance between aesthetics and primal instincts. The treehouse, in all its uncultivated character, becomes a palace and resort fit for a true king.
Overcoming challenges was an integral part of bringing this design to life. The concept of bringing indoor life outside the building required careful consideration of factors such as sunburn, rain, insects, privacy, and boundaries. Extensive use of canopies, shade trees, and sclerophyllous forests helped create distinct divisions and minimize interference. Additionally, the outdoor entertainment area on the second floor of the treehouse was strategically designed to reduce insect obstruction.
Shun Chih Chen's design pays homage to the legacy of Kaare Klint, the father of modern furniture, who believed that furniture should be more than mere decoration but an accessory that accompanies us everywhere. This design breakthrough allows hunters to make use of communal spaces while preserving their privacy. It is a testament to the designer's skill and vision.
Shun Chih Chen's modern hunting lodge has garnered well-deserved recognition, winning the Iron A' Design Award in 2021 for its exceptional interior space, retail, and exhibition design. This award celebrates designs that are practical, innovative, and meet professional and industrial requirements. With its integration of industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, this design contributes to a better world, offering fulfillment and positive experiences to its guests.
Project Designers: Shun-Chih Chen, Chi-wei Shih
Image Credits: Topro Construction Ltd.
Project Team Members: SHUN-CHIH CHEN
Project Name: Modern Hunting Lodge
Project Client: Shun-Chih Chen, Chi-wei Shih