Returning to simplicity, realizing the essence of nature

"Wanji" is nestled by the Erhai Lake, concealed in a corner of garden on the east side of the Lake. Its idea is to bring the “bed-and-breakfast”(B&B) back to its roots, which means to keep it simple, natural, cozy and with local characteristics. Designer Yiping hopes to bring the essence of life back to emotions, integrating nature into the design. The pursuit of "naturalism" emphasizes absolute objectivity, simply describing nature and contemplating things as they are. Drawing inspiration and reference from the natural environment and elements, it creates architectural works that seamlessly blend with nature.

"Naturalism" places a focus on using natural materials like wood and stone to create an atmosphere that harmonizes with the natural environment. These materials not only blend with the surroundings but also offer a comfortable and warm touch. The designer seeks to maximize the use of natural light and ventilation to provide a comfortable indoor environment: mountain ranges and clouds are projected on the water, showing an impressionistic painting, colored by a gentle breeze and rolling clouds. The scene changes with the seasons, and the building remains integrated with nature. Only the sunlight through the branches of the trees, projecting onto the plain wall, with its flickering shadow dropping down, people perceive the flow of time.

With light as our guide, let's create a world of meaning.

Light and shadow coexist with space, creating a sense of place where every movement has its own context, and time and space gradually come alive. Light breathes life and soul into space, outlining the boundaries and lines of the architecture. Breaking through the walls of space, the designer "frames" the natural landscape of mountains and waters into the space. In the morning, looking out from the waterside terrace, you will see the sunlight pierces through thin mist, casting light across the entire lake. The terrace design blocks unnecessary sight bringing external scenery into the internal view, extending the depth and breadth of space, connecting the water feature with Erhai Lake, blending harmoniously.

At noon, as the sunlight moves upward, light spots come alive in the curved stairwell. Designer pays tribute to art with every beam. The well-designed curvature of the stairs, combined with the guidance of light, adds a more inclusive meaning to the space. Block arrays, a design method form on the plain walls disclosing a sense of rhythm, connecting dispersed spaces in sequence, presenting the spatial charm. Arriving at the courtyard, a feeling of mystery and awe towards nature arises. The infinite sky confined within a limited rectangle makes people ponder light, space, and time, connecting with the perception of the real world. The hot sun evaporated the lake, the wind carrying gentle light onto the wooden floor, fabric and shadows overlapping, a sense of tranquility quietly pervades the space. Following the guidance of light to explore the unknown, different times, different weather, individuals will feel the different spatial texture, the flow of time, to create a different spatial atmosphere emotions.

Slow down to enjoy the daily life that's what we yearn for.

"Wanji" is reclusive and disciplined, seemingly reserved for brilliant moments. The use of planed stones retains the original texture of the building –rough, firm, yet not abrupt–mirroring life here, plain and simple but not careless. The surroundings exude a quiet atmosphere, with texture flowing unspoken vitality. The designer seeks balance between spatial order and the natural order. "Wanji" is filled with gratitude and awe towards nature, embodying relaxation, ceremony, atmosphere, immersion, and emotion, in order to provide a unique experience.

Days pass like the sound of a konghou dispersing over the ocean. When we recall them, we hear the rhythmic crash of waves against the rocks, a natural force that pervades. Designer Yiping, starting with the atmosphere of the space, uses materials such as wood, rough pottery, and cotton linen, awakening emotional trigger in the "age of hermit" , making life more vivid. A sense of ritual adds color to ordinary life by making certain days and moments different from others. "Wanji" with its soft light and beige walls, surrounded by vibrant greenery, invokes a profound sense of appreciation for the vitality of nature.

For "Wanji" , the designer did not confine it to the frameworks set by "B&B" or "boutique hotel." In the words of Ian Schrager, "A boutique hotel refers only to those hotels with a distinct and unique cultural concept." Upholding the "art of hospitality," it pays careful attention to uniqueness in humanities, nature, and lifestyle. From dining to residence, it values "experience," focusing on creating intangible experiences and memories, perceiving emotional space. With the most genuine emotions and sincerity, it observes the often-overlooked body language expressing needs and desires, ensuring people experience nuanced living. “Wanji”welcomes stories coming, always embracing nature. Guests pass through the green shade and see the arch on the porch, with its soft and soothing curved lines, feeling seamlessly integrated with nature, immersed in a relaxed spatial environment. Facing Erhai Lake, people anticipate being surrounded by beautiful emotions, enjoying warmth and happiness. "Wanji" indicates an unexpected encounter between nature and humanity, where one can feel the warmth of time guiding light, the care of the wind, without revisiting the bittersweet experiences of the past but simply enjoying the old sunset while drinking a cup of strong tea.