semi-circular skylight introduces dynamic light patterns within cottage b&b no.11 in china

SlowStudio’s Cottage B&B no.11 stands in Chicheng Valley

SlowStudio’s Cottage B&B No.11 is situated in Chicheng Valley in Hebei, China, where the natural landscape of flowering hillsides and towering trees seamlessly blends with manmade structures. The residential design, chosen among 49 similar floor plans, serves as a prototype for a countryside regeneration project. Located behind the only preserved historical temple in this northern Chinese village, the project offers creative freedom to capture the site’s seasonal transformations and popular stargazing activities. The use of natural wood and stone harmonizes with the valley’s rugged textures, creating a dynamic spatial experience.

evening view from the courtyard | all images by Boris Shiu

dynamism and lyricism define Cottage B&B No.11’s interior layout

The design approach blends modern living conveniences with the rustic countryside’s charm, crafting a dwelling that invites occupants to linger and immerse themselves in the surroundings. Thoughtful color schemes, nuanced lighting, and organic materials instill the space with dynamism and lyricism. This interior design celebrates nature, allowing inhabitants to embrace the vibrancy and coziness of changing seasons while connecting deeply with the landscape.

Architecturally, a semi-circular skylight on the roof allows natural light to play across the walls during the day, creating patterns that change with time. At night, the skylight offers views for stargazing. The design also features an adjustable rotating platform that connects the roof and the mezzanine. This 45-degree rotation introduces dynamic light and shadow patterns, enhancing the room’s interaction with light and creating an artistic effect.

SlowStudio conceives Cottage B&B No.11 as an earthly sanctuary, where individuals can find solace and delight, reveling in nature’s splendor and the passage of time.

dining area

main space

main space

dining area

dining area

view of the temple

mezzanine

1/5

entrance

bedroom

bedroom

walk-in wardrobe connecting the bedroom to the bathroom

master bathroom

project info:

name: Cottage B&B no.11
architect: SlowStudio.cn | @slowstudio.cn

lead designers: Vincent GU, Chen JIN

design team: Wan Huiyang, Li Juan Service

construction drawings: FF&E

stylist: Lily Zhao

client: UNICO

location: Chicheng Valley, Hebei, China

area: 101 sqm

photography: Boris Shiu

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom