Unveiling Zhao Hua Xi Shi: A Living Museum by Paul Bo Peng

Where Traditional Chinese Art Meets Modern Design at the Foot of the Great Wall

Paul Bo Peng, the designer behind Zhao Hua Xi Shi, drew inspiration from the layout of a traditional Chinese Courtyard House. These houses typically contain a series of rooms built around an open central garden, a concept that Peng has seamlessly incorporated into his design. The resort also maximizes the scenic nature of the Great Wall, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the view and natural surroundings.

What sets Zhao Hua Xi Shi apart is its unique location and function. The resort incorporates art exhibition, catering, leisure, and office spaces, making it a rare find in such a famous and historically significant site. The cultural significance of the site is reflected in the architectural design of the wellness resort, which captures traditional Chinese culture but with a sophisticated modern twist.

The resort was built using locally sourced materials, both new and recycled, including local timber for facade cladding, local river reeds for the outdoor ceiling, recycled timber sleepers for the path, and local pebbles and stones for the feature walls. The choice of materials not only reduced the cost but also added to the story and character of the building. The main building structure was completed before winter, thanks to the use of a steel structure that could be prefabricated off-site and then assembled on-site.

The project started construction in May 2015 and was completed in July 2016. The design team, which included Paul Bo Peng, Yang, Yen Hu, and Stoney Yu, faced several challenges during the construction phase. They were under time and cost pressure from the client, which required certain modifications to the design. However, they managed to overcome these challenges and deliver a design that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also cost-effective.

Zhao Hua Xi Shi has been recognized for its outstanding design, winning the Golden A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2018. This award is granted to marvelous, outstanding, and trendsetting creations that reflect the designer's prodigy and wisdom. They are venerated products and bright ideas that advance art, science, design, and technology, embodying extraordinary excellence and significantly impacting the world with their desirable characteristics.

In conclusion, Zhao Hua Xi Shi is a testament to the power of design in capturing and preserving culture. It serves as a living museum, offering visitors a unique blend of art, culture, and leisure in a historically significant site. Its unique design and location make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in architecture, design, and Chinese culture.