Located in the city of Yantai, on the coast
of Shandong Province, the Guoling coast sales centre is positioned less than 50m from the beach. thus
allowing unparalleled views of this idyllic spot from all aspects.
The project brief was to provide a
comprehensive renovation of both the facade and internal space of the current
building located on site, whilst maintaining the existing structural framework
.The design intention being to create a unique seaside architectural style, which is lightweight in both form and
language, reminiscent of a traditional observatory overlooking the sea.
For the renovation of level-1, a subtle
counterpoint is established where on one hand the transparent French windows
weaken the sense of a solid wall, whilst
at the same time help define the shape and strength of columns, making
reference to the ‘pillars of an
observatory’. The form of the building at Level-2 ,with cantilevers extending
towards all sides, defines the principle
iconic impression of the design, as the elongated form resembles not only an observatory platform, but also creates a
sense of motion, like two flying wings.
The central axis of the overall symmetrical
layout is emphasized at Level-3 , with
the external facade utilizing a glass curtain wall with vertical louvers
attached externally, creating a sense of a cascading veil. During the day the
vertical louvers provide ample shade to the inside space whilst filtering
external glass reflection; whereas at
night when with interior is illuminated, the building transforms into a
‘lighthouse’ beside the sea.
Location: Yantai, Shandong, China
GFA: 3,500 sqm
Client: Sunac China
Design Team: Yongzheng Li, Qizhi Li, Tim
Mason, Teng Jiang, Yanfeng Lyu, Falu Wang, Wei Wang
Co-Architect: Beijing Institute of
Residential Building Design & Research
LDI: Shandong Plan Engineering Design
Landscape: S.P.I Landscape Group
Fit-out: W Studio
Facade Contractor: Beijing Xifei Century
Curtain Wall Engineering
Design Date: 10/2017 - 11/2017
Construction Date: 12/2017 - 04/2018