The project is situated in Guilin, Guangxi, a renowned scenic tourist destination. The region enjoys a mild, pleasant climate and is surrounded by lush greenery. A small river gently flows through the center of the site, alongside which the Tree House Hotel has been thoughtfully positioned. The design’s primary objective is to offer guests an immersive lodging experience deeply connected to nature, taking full advantage of the local environment and climate.
Treehouses have a long history dating back to ancient civilizations, where they served as spacious, practical shelters that offered protection from danger. This project embraces the treehouse concept to give visitors a nostalgic and primitive experience of simplicity. The buildings are elevated approximately 5 meters above ground, creating a light and natural structure that offers expansive views. The height aligns with the tree crowns, so from inside, guests feel as if they are wandering through a dense jungle of lush foliage.
The project consists of 13 treehouses in total, featuring five distinct designs with various sizes and shapes. Unit A covers around 27 square meters, with the main activity area on the first floor. The second floor makes use of the triangular space above to create a cozy crawl space for children to play. Other units include children’s bedrooms on the second floor, while the first floor serves as a communal area and adult bedroom, spanning approximately 45 square meters. Indoor stairs connect the two floors, providing children with a dedicated space to play and explore freely.
Units B and C feature outdoor slides connecting the second floor to the first, turning them into playful spaces for children. The D-type unit is topped with a simulated thatch roof and boasts an overall curved form, evoking a rustic, natural vibe. Meanwhile, the E-type unit uses wooden slats arranged to form an elliptical facade, giving it a distinctive, whimsical appearance that appeals to children.
Guests can follow a winding, elevated boardwalk to reach treehouses scattered throughout the site. This boardwalk also connects to the inn’s second floor, guiding visitors into the treehouse area. Recreational facilities such as slides and swings have been installed along the boardwalk, linking vertically to the garden below and providing convenient play areas for children. Additionally, there are viewing and relaxation spaces where guests can unwind among the treetops.
The elevated design of the boardwalk and treehouses maximizes ground clearance, minimizing environmental impact and preserving an open panoramic garden below. Surrounded by buildings and trees, the area remains cool and comfortable even in summer.
Technical Drawing
△ General Layout Plan
Project Information
Project Type: Hotel
Location: Guilin, Guangxi
Status: Completed
Building Area: 608.01 square meters
Owner: Rongchuang (Beijing) Cultural Tourism Planning and Research Institute Co., Ltd
Design Period: March 2019 – July 2020
Completion Date: June 2021
Design Firm: AOE Construction Team
Lead Architect: Wen Qun
Design Team: Liang Jiahan, Liu Liuqing, Li Jianxin, Fan Ruixue
Office Website: __AI_ST_URL_0__
Photography by Zhu Runzi
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