Context and Challenge
Situated at the foot of Tianhua Mountain Scenic Area in Qingshanpu Town, Changsha County, Hunan Province, the Dashali Rural Coffee Bookstore project aimed to attract young visitors to this 4A-level red tourist attraction. The town government sought a low-cost, attractive coffee and book shop design that harmonized with the traditional “red” scenic area while appealing to modern tastes.
Perceiving the Site
Understanding the site’s unique features was crucial in devising the design concept. The location’s low-lying terrain posed challenges in visibility and accessibility. To address this, the design focused on creating a sense of scale and visibility on the south-facing facade while maintaining a hidden profile on the north side, allowing for unobstructed views of Tianhua Mountain.
Mixed Construction Approach
Budget constraints prompted innovative construction methods. Instead of conventional methods, the project embraced a mixed brick and wooden structure commonly found in local houses. This approach offered economic and aesthetic advantages, reducing costs while enhancing structural integrity and waterproofing performance.
Form Innovation with Tradition
While adopting traditional structural systems, the project innovated in form details. Traditional wooden columns, with their varying shapes, posed challenges in intersection with walls. The design addressed this by incorporating inclined openings, ensuring uniformity in column width and achieving a seamless transition between wood and wall.
Modernizing Roofing Solutions
Traditional sloping roofs were replaced with lighter asphalt tile roofs, offering improved waterproofing and integration. The need for roof overhangs was reassessed, considering advancements in exterior wall coatings. This led to a more streamlined and contemporary appearance, enhancing the building’s aesthetics while maintaining functionality.
By navigating the balance between tradition and modernity, the Dashali Rural Coffee Bookstore successfully integrates into its historical context while offering a contemporary and inviting space for young visitors to enjoy coffee, books, and scenic views.
