Alila Yangshou | Vector Architects

Alila Yangshuo is located in a col near Li River in Yangshuo, Guangxi. Surrounded by a picturesque natural landscape, the site locates in one of the most typical karst regions. An old sugar mill built in the 1960s is beautifully preserved, with an industrial truss used for sugar cane transport. We envision industrial heritage as the representation of the spirit of the older generation. This became the premise of this project. Our main design strategies include the following.

Old and New

Flanked with a newly-added suite building and villa, the old sugar mill and industrial truss occupy the central part of the hotel complex. The sunken plaza and reflecting pond further accentuate the spiritual symbolism and significance of the old structure.

Promenade Experience

We view our site as a garden for guests to wander and ponder: old sugar mill, industrial truss, new volumes, reflecting pond, and path define spaces of different kinds. Two circulation systems pass up and through the suite building: one being a completely functional corridor system while the other serving as a free public walkway, connecting three important cave-like node spaces.

Man-made and Natural

The site is surrounded by karst peaks, facing Li River to the south and a busy driveway to the north. The horizontality of architecture and verticality of karst mountain shows the interaction between the man-made and the natural. (text by architects)