The Dalinggen Village Tea House, a 200-square-meter facility, serves as both a tea house and a community hub in the rural area of Zhejiang Province, intricately connected with the rich tea heritage of Songyang County. Nestled within the serene Organic Tea Valley Park, this project ingeniously transforms an erstwhile signal tower and mechanical room into a vibrant center for cultural and educational engagement while keeping the signal tower functional, offering an in-depth exploration of the region's millennia-old tea tradition.
Upon entering from the southwest, visitors are greeted by a reception house, accessed via ascending steps that initiate a journey through evolving landscapes, reminiscent of the wandering paths found in traditional Chinese gardens. The Tea House unfolds two unique experiences: an external ramp that rises to afford sweeping vistas of the tea valley, weaving through lush tea plantations to the rooftop; and an internal route that descends from the main entrance, featuring multifunctional stairs equipped with bookshelves and seating arrangements, perfect for hosting tea tastings and cultural gatherings. A comprehensive tea bar, offering a selection of teas and tea-inspired desserts, further enriches this immersive experience.
From an architectural standpoint, the Tea House echoes the aesthetic of the surrounding terraced tea mountains. Its facade, adorned with local materials such as brushed stone and concrete, integrates seamlessly into the landscape, offering a contemporary interpretation of traditional tea house architecture. Meanwhile, the 30m tall signal tower is enveloped in diffuse surface facade metal panels, enabling it to blend into the expansive surroundings. The design cleverly hides HVAC systems and mechanical components within the roof's cavity, with skylights and curved ceilings creating captivating light effects, inviting moments of reflection.
This project is a testament to environmental stewardship, exemplifying adaptive reuse by conserving the existing tower, thereby minimizing ecological footprints. It establishes itself as a key social venue, hosting a wide array of educational and cultural activities that bolster the community's social fabric.
Functionally diverse, the Tea House serves as an ideal location for tea exhibitions, performances, workshops, and community gatherings, significantly enhancing the appreciation and understanding of local tea culture. Through its thoughtful design and multifaceted program, the Tea House stands as a testament to the successful fusion of cultural heritage with contemporary design, fostering a deep connection with nature and community.