Yanlan Resort Hotel: A Harmonious Blend of Tradition and Innovation

Wu Xiaolu's Award-Winning Design Transforms Dilapidated Farmhouses into a Luxurious Retreat

Wu Xiaolu's approach to the design of the Yanlan Resort Hotel was rooted in respect and prudence towards local culture and the villagers. The original farmhouses and sites were meticulously sorted and renovated, preserving the essence of the traditional folk houses of northern Guizhou. This approach resulted in a symbiotic relationship between the buildings and their surrounding environment, creating a harmonious co-existence with the local villagers.

The Yanlan Resort Hotel is unique in its location and design. Nestled deep within the beautiful mountains and waters of northern Guizhou, the hotel is a transformed natural village. The project began with the renovation of old peasant houses, sorting the space between them, and expanding some into restaurants and gathering venues for guests. This innovative design strategy sets the Yanlan Resort Hotel apart from other resorts.

The realization of this project was achieved through the use of various materials including lilac wood, Russian ash, gray brick, plain cement, and gray iron plate. The design team, led by Wu Xiaolu and comprising Li Ruiqi, Li Dongxu, Luo Rui, Cheng Zhijun, and Yang Jie, demonstrated remarkable expertise and innovation in the execution of this project.

One of the major challenges faced by the design team was to ensure a natural and harmonious co-existence between the local culture, natural environment, surrounding villagers, and the hotel project. This required a careful consideration of tradition and the present, a challenge that was successfully overcome, as evidenced by the seamless integration of the hotel within its environment.

The Yanlan Resort Hotel is not just a resort; it is a testament to the power of innovative design in transforming spaces while respecting and preserving local culture and tradition. This project serves as an inspiration for future designs that aim to blend tradition with modernity, creating spaces that are not only functional but also contribute positively to their surrounding environment.

Wu Xiaolu's design was recognized with the Silver A' Design Award, a prestigious accolade awarded to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation. This recognition is a testament to the remarkable level of excellence achieved in the design of the Yanlan Resort Hotel.