Introduction: The lighthouse on the paddy field stands as the most iconic structure in the “Ten Thousand Mu Fang” project located in Xiwu Street, Fenghua District, Ningbo. It has quickly become a new landmark and social gathering spot in the local countryside. The watchtower rises 23 meters high and is centrally located within the national modern agriculture demonstration zone’s high-standard farmland. Its sculptural spiral design ascends from the rice fields, featuring triangular elements and a white membrane that define a clean, concise architectural language, making it a striking presence in the rural landscape.
Landscape and Agriculture: The surrounding landscape is characterized by vast farmlands, thriving crops, and a rich variety of ecosystems. Farmland has long symbolized the deep connection between humans and nature. Farmers work in harmony with the environment, engaging in sowing, cultivating, and harvesting cycles. Nature sustains not only our bodies but also our spirits. However, with the rapid pace of urbanization, many have migrated from rural areas to cities, leading to an increasing disconnect from the natural world.
This project fosters a strong connection between visitors and the natural environment through its architectural form. Its distinctive shape attracts city dwellers who follow the paths leading from afar, revealing different perspectives from various angles. Upon reaching the base of the tower, visitors are drawn to the expansive rice fields that surround them. The watchtower forms a natural backdrop while visitors rest on stone benches by the fields or climb the stairs to take in the panoramic views. They witness the gentle wind sweeping through the rice, creating waves that ripple like dancing brushstrokes. The scent of the earth carries softly, soothing the soul and making time feel suspended.
As night descends, the interior lighting shines through the thin membrane, casting a gentle glow akin to a soft brushstroke on a canvas. In the darkness, the watchtower transforms into a serene and mysterious beacon, like a hazy wonderland resting softly upon the earth.
The design draws inspiration from the abstract form of mature rice ears. A unified triangular motif serves as the main theme, shaping the entire form and structure of the tower through vertical transformations, rotations, and reconstructions. The building’s surface is clad in white high-strength membrane layers arranged in a staggered pattern. As visitors ascend the tower along the winding path, the varying framed views provide a dynamic visual experience, inviting exploration and discovery.
The project is fully accessible, featuring a central core elevator on the ground floor that allows visitors in wheelchairs to reach the top observation deck directly. From this vantage point, one can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view stretching out to distant villages and cities beyond.
Project Drawings
△ Axonometric Diagram
△ General Layout Plan
△ First Floor Plan
△ Second Floor Plan
△ Elevation Drawing
△ Elevation Drawing
△ Section Diagram
△ Detailed Structural Drawing
Project Information
Architect: Lin Zaiguo Studio, East China Institute of Electric Power Construction, China
Area: 840 m²
Year: 2023
Photographer: Zhao Yilong
Manufacturer: Duken 18089, Germany
Design Team: Jiang Zhelin, Hu Qing, Huang Yurong, Peng Feng (Planning), Wang Ke (Planning)
Engineering Team: Jia Jianguo (Structural), Du Genxing (Electrical), Jiang Chao (Water Supply and Drainage)
Steel Structure Construction: Ningbo Tianyuan Steel Structure Co., Ltd
Construction Contractor: Zhejiang Jin’e Ecological Construction Co., Ltd
Membrane Structure Design: Zhejiang Zhongnan Green Building Technology Group Co., Ltd
Lead Designer: Lin Zaiguo
Principal: Ningbo Zhensheng Grain Operation Co., Ltd
Location: Ningbo, China
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