rural ceramic factory becomes 'brickyard retreat' hotel by LLLab.

from ceramic factory to brickyard retreat hotel

Hidden among the rural Beigou Village, at the foot of China‘s Great Wall, lies the Brickyard Retreat renovated by architecture studio LLLab. The original structure of the boutique hotel has a rich history, having once served as an independent tile firing workshop known as the glazed tile factory. When demand declined, the factory found new life in 2010 as a hotel, embracing its heritage in its new name. Owned by local villagers passionate about architecture and Chinese culture, the brick complex has become a cornerstone of the village’s cultural identity. Now, the village is experiencing a surge in cultural tourism — the project by LLLab. exemplifies a promising strategy for sustainable development which prioritizes rural revitalization alongside cultural preservation.

once a glazed tile factory, the Brickyard Retreat in Beigou Village is now a boutique hotel | images © Arch-Exist

lllab. looks to the past to shape the future

The architectural intervention by LLLab. at the Brickyard Retreat is a thoughtful response to its heritage. Three key elements — glazed tile, old kiln, and red brick — serve as the guiding principles. These elements embody the cultural legacy of the factory, the architectural history of the space, and the village’s local identity. The architects have leveraged these elements to define program spaces, landscape features, and a sense of respect for the site.

The main building of the Brickyard Retreat houses the original tile burning kiln, and has been transformed by LLLab. into a multi-purpose reception area, perfect for gatherings. The floor is finished with a mosaic of tiles in both natural and bright colors, a nod to the building’s history. This blend of historical elements and contemporary design fosters a stimulating atmosphere that connects the retreat’s current purpose to its industrial past. Meanwhile, the north courtyard presents a contrasting experience. Here, red brick and a clear view of the Great Wall evoke a sense of connection to the local, rural life. This tranquil space encourages a slower pace for relaxation. The focus here shifts to the beauty of nature and the surrounding landscape.

the rise of cultural tourism has spurred Beigou Village’s development

Glazed Tile: A Story Woven in Stone

The kiln’s architectural language, a sequence of cave-like spaces, is unified and amplified by the extensive use of tiles on the floors. Varying tile sizes and installation methods create distinct atmospheres in each space. Roofs, indoor and outdoor paving — each area features unique tiling patterns. These glazed tiles serve as a tangible narrative, conveying the building’s cultural heritage and history. The mosaics engage visitors through multiple senses with vibrant patterns and varied textures. Every detail emphasizes the importance of preserving and reinterpreting cultural heritage in today’s world.

the Brickyard Retreat’s renovation respects the site’s heritage, using glazed tile and the building’s original kiln

The former kiln, the heart of the tile factory, has been thoughtfully preserved by the architects at LLLab. The existing interior texture remains largely untouched, with just one additional wall added for safety and comfort. This minimal intervention allows guests to experience the cave-like space from all angles, appreciating the unique, multi-layered deposits — remnants of the kiln’s industrial past. The arched porch’s extension into the main entrance serves as a powerful introduction, instantly connecting visitors to the building’s heritage. This gesture reinforces the kiln’s historical significance and its solemn architectural language.

the main building’s program spaces feature a mosaic of tiles, hinting at the building’s industrial past

The Brickyard Retreat renovation playfully challenges traditional rural construction techniques and materials. The re-appropriation of these methods imbues the materials with new expressive qualities when placed within a fresh architectural context. Red brick, extensively used throughout the project as a tribute to the local heritage, takes on a newfound autonomy. It breaks free from convention, reaching a new level of local expression.

curving walls form meandering pathways and unfolding spaces