Donghulin Guest House: Blending Architecture with Nature

A Harmonious Retreat Seamlessly Attached to the Mountain

The Donghulin Guest House, designed by Fon Studio, is a remarkable example of how architecture can seamlessly blend with its natural surroundings. The design concept of the building is simple and clear, with a focus on creating a harmonious retreat that is in tune with the mountain landscape.

One of the standout features of the guest house is the use of three pitched roofs of different heights. These roofs not only add visual interest to the building but also serve to separate the functional layout of the space. The gaps formed by the roofs create a rhythmic pattern that responds to the natural landscape, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.

Located at a certain altitude, the guest house offers breathtaking views from every angle. Whether you are standing up close or looking from afar, the outlook is always captivating. This unique feature allows guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and experience a sense of tranquility.

While the guest house is designed to provide a comfortable and relaxing stay, it also takes into consideration the operational needs of the operators. The number of guest rooms is intentionally limited, allowing for a large public area that provides flexibility for various activities. This design approach ensures that the guest house can cater to different types of guests and adapt to their specific requirements.

The construction of the Donghulin Guest House presented several challenges. The building is located on a mountainside, overlooking a village below. Before the renovation, it was a dilapidated residence that was no longer livable. The design team had to navigate the delicate balance between preserving the traditional architectural style and meeting the requirements of the new owners and legal regulations.

The main structure of the guest house is constructed using poured concrete, which posed challenges in terms of material transportation and temperature control. Despite the simplicity of the building's shape, the craftsmanship requirements were high, which presented difficulties for the local construction workers. The design team made adjustments to the construction process to ensure cost-effectiveness without compromising the design's integrity.

The Donghulin Guest House has garnered recognition for its innovative design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category in 2022. This prestigious award recognizes designs that exhibit outstanding creativity, technical skill, and contribution to quality of life improvements.

With its seamless integration with nature, the Donghulin Guest House offers a unique and immersive experience for guests. Its design, inspired by the surrounding landscape, creates a harmonious retreat that allows visitors to connect with the beauty of the natural environment.

Images: FON STUDIO