Hua Li, founder and principal architect of the practice TAO (Trace Architecture Office), once defined architecture in an interview as a discipline beset by too many literary and philosophical terms and definitions. His work shows, however, that he has successfully steered clear of both. It reveals a concern for basic architectural design stripped of all whimsy, and a focus on basic elements such as topography, function, structure and materials in order to grasp the internal logic behind each project and so allow the most pertinent design solution to emerge. The Wuyishan Bamboo Raft Factory has attracted a lot of attention recently. The design concept springs from its function as a manufacturing and storage facility of bamboo rafts where technological performance and economical efficiency take pride of place. The warehouse and bamboo processing plant using local craft traditions is a linear building placed in order to benefit from the prevailing wind. Reduced building width ensures full penetration of natural daylight. The whole project makes use of fair-face concrete, concrete blocks and local materials such as phyllostachys edulis, the native giant timber bamboo. Located on the outskirts of Beijing, the Forest Building harks back to the concepts of Western Modernism and programs that provide a basic structure but allow for flexibility along the Structuralist lines proposed by Herman Hertzberger. The form of this forest park service facility takes its cue from a branching tree. The basic unit is a central column with four cantilevered beams at different heights. Combinations of this elementary structure create a building that weaves between the real trees. The skeleton is made with glulam timber and rammed earth. Infills of tranparent glass make the whole building look like a huge canopy giving protection to the human activity below The Rockview Teahouse in Weihai follows the same logic of respecting its natural context. Resembling a stony outcrop - placed for...
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