Located on a narrow strip of land between the Tianshan Mountains and the Taklamakan Desert, Boguqi experiences an annual precipitation of less than 20mm. Satellite imagery reveals the boundary where human activity ends, marked by a green edge. It is here that the Huashan Middle School Boguqi Campus is situated.
Fangcheng Concept: The term “Fangcheng” refers to an architectural strategy designed to withstand the harsh external environment. The entire school consists of two simple square rings—one dedicated to teaching and the other for accommodation. Fangcheng acts as a “partial artificial nature” carved from the Gobi Desert, embodying a strong defensive spirit. It symbolizes a fortified educational city carved from the yellow sands, protecting its interior against natural forces.
This four-story building stretches horizontally for 140 meters, establishing a close connection between the structure and the vast earth surrounding it.
The Courtyard: Within the “Fangcheng” lies a vast courtyard covering nearly 9,000 square meters, a man-made natural environment known as the “Hundred Tree Garden.” The courtyard’s terrain is shaped into a micro-landscape with nearly a 3-meter height difference, adding depth and hierarchy to the space. The vision is for lush greenery and extended summers, where the reflections of buildings and terraces shimmer on the pond’s surface.
The courtyard opens to the northwest corner, creating an outdoor performance plaza.
Architectural Strength: The building’s continuous horizontal lines and straightforward physical relationships exude a powerful presence. This design merges Western architectural traits with local construction expertise, creating a natural clarity that resonates on the vast land. The grand scale of the construction further amplifies this impression.
Brickwork and Warmth: While simplicity conveys strength, the local bricklayers add a sense of warmth. The use of authentic bricks in key sections of the large painted walls contrasts with the main building, showcasing craftsmanship and infusing the architecture with a welcoming character.
Gathering Spaces: The school serves as a hub for gathering and community. The courtyard within the four-story learning center is bright and airy, topped with a uniform serrated skylight that fosters an open and cohesive atmosphere. The vertical shared atrium functions as a multifunctional hall, offering versatile possibilities for future educational activities.
The library sits at the intersection of the teaching and dormitory areas and acts as the transportation core of the entire campus. Its circular hollow atrium opens into the public space, allowing natural light to flood in from above. This bright and tranquil area fosters a connection between books and the spirit, destined to become a memorable place for students over time.
Sunset View: On the west side, the space opens to the inner courtyard through seven massive continuous arches. These arches not only respond to the regional environment but also emphasize the concept of the “city.” Each day, students can watch the sun set through different arches, creating both a learning experience and a focal point for collective campus memories.
Project Drawings
△ General Layout Plan
△ First Floor Plan
△ Second Floor Plan
△ Third Floor Plan
△ Fourth Floor Plan
△ Elevation Drawing
△ Elevation Drawing
△ Section Diagram
△ Section Diagram
Project Information
Architect: Rong Chaohui Studio
Area: 45,800 m²
Project Year: 2022
Photographer: Existence of Architecture – Architectural Photography
Lead Architect: Rong Chaohui
Architects: Wang Xuefeng, Wang Kaicheng, Song Peng, Chen Yangfan, Wang Zhihao, Li Huaxiao, Huang Mingliang, Zhou Jianjun, Zuo Xiaoxi
Structural Design: Li Junguo, Wu Xiuliang, Du Chengzong
Plumbing and HVAC Specialists: Zhang Zhenyu, Zhao Xiaofeng, Wang Teng, Ju Yuqun
Electrical Engineers: Wang Yunfei, Liu Qi
Client: Huashan Middle School, Xinjiang Agricultural Second Normal University
Interior Design: Jiangsu Zhongrui Huadong Architectural Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd.
Landscape Design: Jiangsu Zhongrui Huadong Architectural Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd.
Construction Drawing Design: Xinjiang Urban and Rural Construction Engineering Design Co., Ltd.
Construction Contractors: Xinjiang Huanyu Construction Engineering (Group) Co., Ltd., Xinjiang Tiemenguan Sanjian Construction Engineering Co., Ltd.
Location: Tiemenguan City
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