BBK35: A Modern Twist on Traditional Hutong Living

Reimagining the Essence of Hutong Life in Beijing

Hutong, a key component of Beijing's urban fabric, holds immense cultural significance as a reflection of Chinese heritage and social classes. In the search for new dwelling possibilities within the small irregular courtyards, the BBK35 project takes inspiration from the hutong's spatial structure and reimagines it for the modern era.

The design of BBK35 centers around the concept of connectivity and the creation of both indoor and outdoor public spaces. One of the standout features is the lifted bridge room, which maximizes the utilization of space and maintains the essence of the hutong's mixed lifestyle. The basement, previously built by the owner, has been transformed into an atrium with a skylight, serving as a welcoming indoor multi-purpose public space.

Not only does BBK35 provide accommodations for guests, but it also offers a platform for visitors to immerse themselves in ancient Chinese culture. The guest houses serve as more than just lodgings; they are spaces where visitors can experience the customs and traditions of old Beijing. The rooftop terrace and basement represent the yin and yang of the design, while the lifted bridge room and guest houses symbolize the harmonious coexistence of the old and the new.

The realization of BBK35 is a testament to the designer's vision and the integration of historical and modern elements. The glazing component that plugs into the center courtyard seamlessly blends with the existing structures, showcasing a contrast between the historical and the modern. This high-contrast and unitary expression redefines the courtyard, linking the inner and outer fields and bridging the gap between new and old, public and private territories.

With an area of 200 square meters and an interior area of 318 square meters, BBK35 is a testament to the successful reimagining of traditional hutong living. It is a design that not only provides a place to stay but also creates a dialogue between the historical and modern eras, allowing visitors to experience the unique charm of Beijing's hutong culture.

The BBK35 project, which began in late 2015 and was completed in August 2016, is located at 35 BaBaoKeng Hutong, Dongcheng District, Beijing, China. It is a result of extensive research and experimentation within the context of the historic and political area, aiming to introduce new lifestyles and provide a glimpse into the ancient part of modern China.

Recognized for its innovative design, BBK35 was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2018. This prestigious accolade is a testament to the project's well-designed, practical, and innovative approach, meeting professional and industrial requirements while contributing to a better world.