2025 | Professional

MUSE Design Awards Silver Winner

Qingshan Future Homestay-An Alibaba Philanthropy Initiative

Entrant

Alibaba Foundation

Category

Architectural Design - Rural Design

Client's Name

The People’s Government of Huanghu Town

Country / Region

China

About The Entry

This project is located on an ideal site, nestled against a hill and facing water, with its back to the slope and front towards lush forests. To the south lie expansive rice fields and rivers, offering superior landscape conditions. The site stretches along a small axis, connecting to Huanghu Town in the west and Deqing in the east, ensuring convenient geographical and transportation advantages. As a new model for Alibaba's rural revitalization initiative, this project integrates products, design, operation, and digital capabilities, aiming to set a benchmark for rural homestays. By enhancing the commercial profitability of Qingshan Village, it aims to boost rural economic income.

The architectural design respects the site’s characteristics, blending local culture and natural surroundings to foster deep resonance between people, buildings, and the environment. Structures are built along the foot of the mountain, forming an inward-focused spatial layout around a courtyard. Local materials like stone, bamboo, wood, and fences are used, emphasizing sustainability while preserving traditional residential charm. A second-story open-air pool and large canopy create multiple semi-outdoor spaces ("transition spaces") that allow wind and rain to pass through, enhancing natural experiences. Roofs are covered with layered thatch, resembling undulating mountains, bridging humans, architecture, and nature.

The main facade features strong geometric compositions and textured contrasts, integrating mountain contours and village ambiance. Eaves are skillfully designed with layered double roofs, enriching spatial experiences, while slightly tilted roofs paired with wooden frameworks create beautiful skylines and highlight regional identity. The central courtyard lawn serves as a versatile space for daily leisure or special events, balancing functionality and aesthetics.

Incorporating modern technology and traditional craftsmanship, this project exemplifies successful rural revitalization—rooted in nature, guided by culture, and driven by technology. It provides a replicable and sustainable model for future rural development.

Credits

Design team
Zhu Wenbin
Design team
Feng Yao
Design team
Tang Lu
Design team
Yuan Zhihua
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