LOCATED IN HANGZHOU, Dongmingshan Senyu Hotel is a 1,300m2 hospitality project designed by GLA Architects. Set within a lush landscape of metasequoias and bamboo groves, the project aims to embrace nature with minimal intervention in a development that includes a reception centre and three types of cabins, each crafted to blend gently into its woodland surroundings.
A few old, decaying wooden structures previously stood on the site. Instead of clearing the land, GLA integrated new architecture, while preserving existing vegetation. No trees were cut.
The reception centre – the project’s main built element – retains the volume of a former structure. A large south-facing window frames the forest while shielding the adjacent slope, and north-facing windows bring the bamboo grove into the space.
The ‘pinecone cabins’ are elevated to preserve the forest floor and avoid tree roots.
The narrowing rooflines echo the verticality of the trees.
The metasequoia wood cottages adopt a stilted construction, enhancing ventilation and reducing site disturbance. A doublepitched roof complements the canopy above, while skylights bring natural light.
Set along the forest edge, three minimalist boxes are wrapped in woven bamboo façades. These façades filter daylight and create soft visual transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces. The visible steel frame allows future modifications. www.gla.com.cn
