‘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.

kengo kuma: the opposite house hotel, beijing exterior glass facade

kengo kuma: the opposite house hotel, beijing interior atrium

kengo kuma: the opposite house hotel, beijing image © designboom

kengo kuma: the opposite house hotel, beijing

kengo kuma: the opposite house hotel, beijing contemporary chinese gallery image © designboom

kengo kuma: the opposite house hotel, beijing image © designboom

kengo kuma: the opposite house hotel, beijing 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.

kengo kuma: the opposite house hotel, beijing oak soaker tub

kengo kuma: the opposite house hotel, beijing wooden water basin image © designboom

kengo kuma: the opposite house hotel, beijing image © designboom

kengo kuma: the opposite house hotel, beijing open, uncluttered space

kengo kuma: the opposite house hotel, beijing stainless steel pool

kengo kuma: the opposite house hotel, beijing image © designboom

kengo kuma: the opposite house hotel, beijing workout machines are positioned around the perimeter

kengo kuma: the opposite house hotel, beijing restaurant

kengo kuma: the opposite house hotel, beijing lounge image © designboom

kengo kuma: the opposite house hotel, beijing metal partition image © designboom

kengo kuma: the opposite house hotel, beijing door detail image © designboom

kengo kuma: the opposite house hotel, beijing