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The idea for the Dalinggen Village Tea House emerged from the unique challenge of transforming a steep, terraced tea mountain site while preserving an operational signal tower. The design concept blends traditional tea culture with modern functionality. The signal tower was creatively integrated with reflective metal panels, and an ascending outdoor path was added to offer panoramic views. The interior features multifunctional steps and pathways that adapt to the terrain, creating spaces for tea tastings, cultural gatherings, and community activities. This innovative approach not only addresses site constraints but also enhances the immersive experience for visitors.
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Set within the terraced tea mountains, the Dalinggen Village Tea House is designed to minimally impact the natural landscape. The building’s staggered volumes follow the mountain’s contours, creating the impression of growing from the hillside. Inside, large steps emphasize the terrain and highlight valley views. The signal tower, originally a constraint, is transformed into a feature with diffused metal panels, seamlessly integrating it into the design. This thoughtful approach creates a harmonious interaction between the architecture and its natural surroundings, allowing visitors to appreciate the unique blend of modern design and traditional tea culture.
The Dalinggen Village Tea House prioritizes sustainability by minimizing site disturbance and using local materials like brushed stone and reused bricks. Natural light and ventilation reduce energy consumption, while skylights and curved ceilings create dynamic lighting effects. The preservation and adaptive reuse of the signal tower demonstrate environmental stewardship. The project received the Architizer A+ Award for Unbuilt Commercial, highlighting its innovative and eco-friendly design approach.
The Dalinggen Village Tea House, transforms an operational signal tower into a cultural hub, celebrating Songyang County’s tea heritage. The project begins with a southwest entrance that leads visitors through a series of evolving landscapes. The Tea House offers two distinct pathways: an outdoor ramp providing panoramic views and an interior route with multifunctional steps for tea tastings and cultural events. A tea bar enhances the visitor experience with a variety of teas and desserts. Architecturally, the building mirrors the terraced tea mountains, using local materials like brushed stone and concrete to blend seamlessly into the landscape. The signal tower, once an obstacle, now features a reflective façade, becoming a central element. The roof conceals HVAC systems, and skylights introduce dynamic lighting effects. This venue hosts exhibitions, performances, workshops, and community events, fostering a vibrant community space. The project exemplifies adaptive reuse and sustainable design, minimizing ecological impact while enriching the local culture.
The design maximizes the site's natural beauty and operational needs. It transforms a challenging site into a community hub, with a café and rentable spaces generating revenue. The light intervention approach is appreciated by villagers, allowing continued use of the tea fields. The project balances the needs of tourists and locals, creating a versatile and functional space that enriches the community.
Founded by architects Yuting Zhang, Pu Zhang, and landscape architect Shimin Cao, Studio RE+N (Re-Evolve Narrative Studio) is an emerging design firm with offices in Lishui and Shanghai. The name reflects the studio's commitment to "Re-Evolving" site-specific elements and "Narrating" the stories of places and their participants, achieving the regeneration of spaces and reinterpretation of the spirit of the place. Studio RE+N has garnered numerous awards internationally, including the Young Architecture Practice Award by Archiposition (2023), an Architizer A+ Award Special Mention (Unbuilt Commercial Category) (2024) for the Dalinggen Village Tea House, the AMP Architecture MasterPrize Winner (Unbuilt Cultural Category) (2023) for the Iceland Volcano Museum, the IDA International Design Gold Award (2023), and the A’Design Silver Award (2023). Their work has been showcased at the Venice Biennale, and their 'Being Heard' Exhibition was featured at the DesignTO Festival in 2024.
