Tongling Recluse: A Harmonious Blend of Old and New

Buro Ziyu Zhuang - RSAA's Innovative Approach to Historic Building Renovation

The inspiration for the Tongling Recluse came from Taoist culture, specifically the concept of "the three begets all things of the world". This philosophy led to the creation of a combined form that responds to local culture, sustainable ecological concepts, and the integration of new and old. The design incorporates curves to separate an alienated imaginary space from the original projection profile, forming an alternating spatial curved surface. These interlaced spaces add depth and richness to the design.

What sets the Tongling Recluse apart from other renovations is its unique approach to preserving the original structure. The previous walls, which shaped the main space, are now interior partitions. The original old bricks were marked and reused to rebuild the wall after the new foundation was laid. This approach not only respects the local culture but also promotes eco-sustainability.

The technical specifications of the project are equally impressive. Despite the limited space and time, a suspension bridge was built on the site for material transportation between two adjacent roads. This innovative solution enabled the creation of the three-dimensional geometry of the roof while maintaining the traditional building elements and components of the whole building with the use of steel fabrication.

The project was not without its challenges. The construction time was short, just 40 days, and the local manual technique was limited, making some parts of the design difficult to achieve. Balancing the relationship between traditional culture and new culture was also a significant challenge. However, the team at Buro Ziyu Zhuang - RSAA rose to the occasion, creating a residential building that is not just a simple dwelling, but a harmonious blend of new and old culture.

The Tongling Recluse is more than just a building; it's a testament to the power of innovative design and a tribute to the rich cultural heritage of its location. It's no surprise that this remarkable project was awarded the Golden A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2018, a prestigious accolade that recognizes outstanding and trendsetting creations that advance art, science, design, and technology.