Bo Du Resort Hotel: A Poetic Oasis in China's Urban Landscape

Zhang Can's Award-Winning Design Blends Nature, History, and Luxury

In the heart of Yunnan province, the Bo Du Resort Hotel stands as a testament to the beauty of nature and the richness of Chinese culture. Designed by Zhang Can of CSD Design Office, the hotel is a poetic oasis amidst the rapid urbanization of China.

The name 'Bo Du' translates to 'providing a place for rest', a philosophy that is deeply embedded in the design of the hotel. Drawing inspiration from the historic Tengchong, a city rich in culture and a significant part of the ancient silk road, the hotel offers a serene environment for guests to unwind and reconnect with nature.

The Bo Du Resort Hotel is unique in its approach to design. Rather than focusing on the architectural elements, the design emphasizes the experiences offered by the local cultural and natural heritage. The goal is to bring people closer to Tengchong, and in essence, closer to themselves.

The hotel is built on a cliff, with an overhanging platform that extends over the edge, offering breathtaking views of the flatland and mountain ranges. Multiple public spaces throughout the hotel are carefully crafted to inspire emotions and a sense of awe. The reflective property of water is utilized to compress the distant scenery, connecting nature with the living spaces.

The hotel covers an area of 3780sqm2 and comprises four three-storey buildings with a total of 32 rooms. The design team, led by Chief Architect Zhang Can, has paid meticulous attention to every detail, from the rustic environment of the first-floor restaurant to the warm, comfortable spaces anchored by a fireplace.

The project, which started in May 2017 and completed in September 2018, posed several challenges. The team aimed to respect the cultural heritage of the place and not intervene with the natural environment. The buildings on the site mimic the rising hills of Tengchong and are connected by a continuous wooden canopy, reminiscent of the outposts on the ancient silk road.

The Bo Du Resort Hotel's design has been recognized with the Platinum A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2019. This prestigious award recognizes world-class, exceptional, and highly innovative designs that showcase unmatched professionalism, contribute to societal wellbeing, and make the world a better place.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: ZHANG CAN
Image Credits: Photographer: Wang Ting
Project Team Members: Chief Architect: Zhang Can Lighting Design: Wan Xia
Project Name: Bo Du Resort Hotel Design
Project Client: ZHANG CAN


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