Misplaced Geometry: A Resort That Melds with Nature

Blending Architecture with the Natural Landscape

In the realm of resort architecture, the Misplaced Geometry project emerges as a testament to the symbiosis between man-made structures and the natural world. The client, an entrepreneur with a vision for a post-retirement sanctuary, sought to create a space that would not only serve as a haven for relaxation but also stand as an emblem of iconic design. The design team, led by Bih-Jeng Lin and Elvis Yeh, embraced this challenge, crafting a resort that is a physical embodiment of the client's journey and values.

The resort's design is distinguished by its unique staggered arrangement of two interconnected buildings. This innovative layout is designed to maximize the enjoyment of the site's highest point, offering breathtaking views and a sense of oneness with nature. The design team's approach deviated from conventional planning, opting for a harmonious blend of asymmetry and varying dimensions. The result is a façade that mirrors the chaotic yet beautiful growth patterns found in nature, achieved through spray-painted geometric shapes that evoke the image of intertwined tree branches.

Realization of the Misplaced Geometry resort was achieved through the use of diverse materials and textures. The grayscale exterior is punctuated by a variety of brick shapes, from hexagonal tiles that create a dynamic overhang to the thin, rectangular bricks that form a striped façade. The incorporation of irregular glass, hollow brick, and wood grain elements further enhances the building's connection to its surroundings, while the strategic placement of floor lamps casts a warm glow, reminiscent of sunlight filtering through a forest canopy.

Technical specifications reveal the resort's expansive nature, with a base area of over 400 square meters and a total indoor area exceeding 413 square meters. The two buildings, known as A and B, span three stories and are connected by ramps and staircases, creating a fluid transition between levels. The design also features a garden lawn that curves around the structure, and trapezoidal windows that align with the building's staggered heights, offering unique perspectives of the landscape.

The resort's interaction with its environment is poetic. As mist envelops the surrounding forest, the resort's yellow lights serve as beacons, guiding visitors through the natural splendor. The design fosters an intimate connection with the landscape, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature, whether bathed in daylight or nestled under a canopy of stars. The laughter of guests mingles with the whispering trees, creating an atmosphere of joyous seclusion.

Completed in July 2018 in Taiwan, the Misplaced Geometry resort is a culmination of extensive research and innovative design solutions. The team overcame the challenges posed by the local climate and environmental conditions, ensuring the resort's longevity and harmony with its setting. This architectural gem not only provides a luxurious escape but also stands as a testament to the beauty of thoughtful, nature-integrated design.

Recognition for this architectural marvel came in the form of the prestigious Bronze A' Design Award in 2024, a nod to the project's exceptional design and contribution to enhancing quality of life. Misplaced Geometry is a celebration of architecture's power to blend seamlessly with the environment, creating spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and soul-nourishing.