SIX SENSES QING CHENG
This project, situated in a transcendental landscape in Sichuan province, was an opportunity for Habita to articulate our respect for traditional Chinese garden architecture.
This resort focuses on Mount Qing Cheng, one of the most important Taoist centers in China.
Starting with a respectful gaze to the mountain, Feng Shui principles determine the layout of the site—main and secondary entrances, and the flow of water throughout the site.
Principal buildings are imbued with their own characteristics, but of paramount importance are harmonious visual connections between mountain, water, nature, and other structures.
The Welcome Pavilion epitomizes the connection between nature and the resort buildings. It is conceived as a bridge, with the main hall suspended between two mountains. Guests arrive at the resort from a dense bamboo avenue leading to the top of the mountain. Entry via a massive antique door reveals a panoramic view over the tiled resort roofscape. It is as though the visitor has arrived at a secret village, humbly located at the foot of Mount Qing Cheng.
The main restaurant also exhibits its own architectural vocabulary, its strong circular form over three floor levels alluding to notions of infinity. But this visually compelling building is also subservient to its axial relationship between Welcome Pavilion and mountain.
Other main buildings are integrated more subtly with the landscape.
External pool and spa blend with mini-island gardens, entered via tunnels. The landscaping design itself relies on functionality to convey a sense of humility and authentic village experience. Duck ponds integrated with rice paddies and market gardens feature prominently in the landscaping scheme.
Arranged in small clusters and rows, 113 rooms and villas complete this pastoral scene. External materials comprise clay roof tiles, natural plaster, and natural timber gable ends, which are derived from a traditional timber structure. Each unit is carefully oriented to provide guests with both an unrestricted view to the mountain and their own privacy, despite space being very limited. The interiors are contemporary.
- Location Chengdu, China
- Date 2015
- Interior designer Six Senses Creative Department
- Landscape designer AECOM Hong Kong
