ARCHITECTURAL FOCUS
mural produces a subtle three-dimensional effect, dominating the space like a dome and creating a strong centrality with some subtle religious sentiment. This space is set as a cafe. We wanted it to be a quiet space for contemplation, where people can stay to have close-up views of the mural, vistas of the stone bridge, deep pond, and the opposite side, and visualize a network of caves spreading out in various directions through the openings in the stone walls.
We defined a circular space with tables and chairs, using powerful geometric forms to counteract the strong spatial characteristics. We set the bar near the stone wall; curved continuous low benches are set on two wings of the circle for people to sit comfortably; and on the entrance side, a high table that can be used by standing or leaning, is easy to get up from at any time, forming a relaxing relationship with the pedestrians on the other side of the low wall. A protruding stone wall at the entrance becomes an opportunity to break the absolute axial symmetry of the composition, and by adjusting the angle and the number of modules, we create a comfortable entrance width. This weakening treatment seems to allow this installation space to integrate more naturally into the environment.
The second space does not have a strong visual focus and has a property of passage, so the overall feeling is relatively loose. We filled one side with an array of bookshelves, while on the opposite side, we set up a reception counter and a bar. The property of the space as a passageway is retained, while the open
We defined a circular space with tables and chairs, using powerful geometric forms to counteract the strong spatial characteristics.
area enclosed in the middle can be used flexibly as an exhibition, workshop, or movie-watching space through different layouts of tables and chairs.
The third space is a trapezoidal platform. The stone wall is disconnected from the platform, creating a high, narrow atrium with the lower space, which naturally becomes the front of the space. The layout of the space is based on this front facade, balanced with the free atmosphere of a pop-up shop for an indie brand. The business formats of this scenic area are supposed to be changed. We hope our design can provide strong flexibility, adapting to unknown spatial conditions by adjusting the forms and the layout of the units.
• Architects: Atelier Moo
• Area: 500 m ²
• Year: 2025
• Photographs: Hao Chen- www. chenhao. studio
• Lead Architects: Xue Jun
ARCHETECH- PAGE 46