kengo kuma: the opposite house hotel, beijing

‘opposite house’ by kengo kuma, beijing, china

‘the opposite house‘ designed japanese architect kengo kuma is the first hotel by swire hotels located in the sanlitun village, beijing, china. the vibrant new open-plan district is the capital’s a lifestyle destination made up of a shopping, dining, and entertainment areas. the zone takes its influence from the courtyards and alleyway’s of the hutong neighborhood, mixing the past with a cosmopolitan present.

the name suggests a place of contrasts and takes from the tradition guest house which sits on the opposite side of a courtyard. the exterior greets visitors with a emerald glass wall, chosen by kuma to convey a sense of calmness which takes from the classic chinese wood lattice to reflect the energetic street life. once inside the the green facade provides a soft screen for privacy and comfort where the expansive atrium blurs the activities of the hotel. situated in the center of the space guests can visit a contemporary gallery which features artwork by ten chinese artist who have interpreted the facade into textile pieces.

exterior glass facade

interior atrium

image © designboom

contemporary chinese gallery image © designboom

image © designboom

studio space with partition and ceiling feature

the hotel has 98 contemporary studios which range in size from 45, 60, 95 and 115 square meter footprints, as well as a two story penthouse suite. the quarters are designed around an open concept with towering floor to ceiling windows, wood finishes and under heating flooring. the larger units offer private dining areas and balconies the top apartment and is spread over two floors with an area of 200 square meters. the expansive roof top terrace connects the indoor and outdoor spaces by a shallow reflecting pool creating an atmosphere of serenity. the interior features bamboo throughout with its own kitchen facility.

oak soaker tub

wooden water basin image © designboom

image © designboom

open, uncluttered space

stainless steel pool

image © designboom

workout machines are positioned around the perimeter

restaurant

lounge image © designboom

metal partition image © designboom

door detail image © designboom