Shared Yard: A Harmonious Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Tianqi Guan's Award-Winning Design Transforms Rural Living

The inspiration behind Shared Yard stems from the fertile potential of the countryside. The project aims to rebuild the relationship among humankind, architecture, and nature, internalizing and shaping tradition and local culture into visible and perceivable forms and symbols. It's a testament to the possibility of diversified development of city and nature, a concept that often poses a challenge to architects.

What sets Shared Yard apart is its commitment to providing a different lifestyle for people accustomed to city living while meeting the functional needs of modern life. The project leads a transformation of culture and economic structure by introducing a new business model and creating a life fashion unique to North China. This rural guest house is not just a place to stay; it's a cultural experience that respects and preserves rural culture.

The realization of Shared Yard involved the use of carbon steel plate, concrete, and white oak finish. The project, which has a site area of 763 sq m, a footprint area of 258 sq m, and a cross area of 327 sq m, was completed between May and October 2019. The design team, led by Tianqi Guan and including Kang Gao, Junnan Li, and Xiang Ni, worked diligently to bring this vision to life.

One of the key challenges the team faced was creating an eco-friendly building. They used suitable construction methods and old materials recycled from the village to minimize environmental impact. The new buildings are designed in a ventilated position, eliminating the need for air conditioning in the summer. All fruits and vegetables needed for life come from the surrounding vegetable fields and orchards, and a drainage system uses rainwater and purified living water to irrigate the fields.

The Shared Yard project has been recognized for its innovative approach to rural construction, winning the Silver A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2020. This prestigious award is given to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation. Shared Yard is indeed a testament to Tianqi Guan's remarkable skill and vision, showcasing a remarkable level of excellence and introducing positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.