The original text was published in Urban China on 2022-01-30.
Authors | Hu Zhile, Zheng Shixiang
Editors | Song Dailun, Cui Guo
Since its inception, housing has evolved beyond mere spatial use, embodying collectivism, fueling urbanization, and signifying wealth and status. However, its architectural essence has gradually blurred. As real estate emerged, the architectural sphere explored new possibilities for residences. Yet, profit-driven design curbed personalized user needs, disrupting China's longstanding house-building tradition and fracturing the resident-dwelling connection. Architects, constrained by profit logic, found themselves in a silence, perpetuating the belief that renowned architects don't venture into residential design. Faced with a desolate urban landscape, avoiding this complex 'present moment' jeopardizes architects' role in shaping Chinese residential potential and global architectural harmony... Read More
This article is featured at Biennale Architettura 2023 Independent Exhibition: Deep Green
The topic of "Rural Construction" in China is currently attracting increased attention from various stakeholders, including political, cultural, production, and business interests, as these forces shape the relationship between urban and rural areas. This trend is not unique to China but rather reflects a global interest in the complexities and unique characteristics of rural areas. Given the distinctive qualities of each rural locale, now is an opportune moment for architects and planners to turn their attention to the practice of rural architecture, with a view to exploring innovative solutions that are tailored to the specific needs of rural communities.
WJ STUDIO's conceptual designs for Huanglong Island B&B in Dongzutou Village, Curly Field in Qingshan Village, and Shipyard Hotel in Shanwan Village demonstrate an innovative approach to integrating regional context and modern architecture. By introducing a diverse range of building typologies, WJ STUDIO seeks to enrich the spatial and architectural values of rural communities, contributing to a more sustainable and community-oriented approach to rural design... Read More