The project site is located at the southern end of Dali Old City, known for its bustling market. Over recent years, shifts in the social environment have prompted this project to revitalize the area by introducing new businesses and reimagining the space. The vision is to create the most relaxing open park for coffee and wine experiences within Dali Old City’s historic boundaries.
The original spherical building at the courtyard’s center was removed to make way for new structures: a curved enclosed corridor, a whiskey lounge in the northeast corner, a coffee pavilion, and an exterior corridor connecting to the existing buildings. These new spaces feature unified, simplified forms and styles with consistent materials and tones, creating an atmosphere that is open inwardly while closed off externally.
During the initial design phase, multiple spatial structures were explored to harmonize the site with Dali’s environment. Ultimately, the simplest and most abstract form—a combination of squares and curves—was selected. The ‘square’ represents a tangible, finite boundary symbolizing pause and stillness, while the ‘curve’ reflects a dynamic, flowing boundary associated with movement and exploration. This “square and curve” spatial concept has remained consistent throughout the project.
Throughout construction, frequent changes in local policies required constant adjustments, pushing the project’s progress to its limits. The unpredictable daily construction pace, combined with the rapid demands of commercial needs, necessitated close collaboration among multiple parties. This led to a space characterized by a direct and natural “patchwork” appearance.
Steel is a prominent material throughout the project, used both for structural framing and surface finishes. Steel plates are cut and joined in the simplest, most straightforward manner, preserving the material’s natural texture and handcrafted details. Reclaimed materials have been creatively repurposed to craft door handles and corridor side tables.
The coffee pavilion is constructed using a flexible, quick-assembly method. It consists of fixed-size plywood beams, columns, and panels, connected and joined with steel connectors and rivets for easy dismantling and adaptability.
The scale of this fusion site contrasts with the increasingly dense commercial spaces of Dali Old City, offering a fresh, relaxed perspective. As an open “park,” the space is highly versatile, accommodating flexible outdoor furniture arrangements and hosting activities of various sizes—both lively and tranquil. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely atmosphere from morning through night.
Project Drawings
△ Analysis Diagram
△ Model Diagram
△ Axonometric Diagram
△ Plan View
△ Section Diagram
△ Detailed Structural Drawing
Project Information
Architect: Edge Plan Architecture Studio
Area: 929 m²
Project Year: 2024
Photographer: Chen Yang
Lead Designer: Chen Xi
Design Team: Liu Suyang, Yao Chen, Yang Yinpeng, Sheng Lian
Client: Yishi Culture and Tourism
Lighting Design Consultant: Hunan Zhuyinghui Design Co., Ltd
Construction: Dali Hongsheng Decoration Engineering Co., Ltd; Dali Jiecheng Steel Structure Engineering Co., Ltd
Location: Dali City, Yunnan Province, China
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