Youhe Community Gasvryheidsontwerp by Zhifeng Zhao

Youhe Community Gasvryheidsontwerp by Zhifeng Zhao is a highly esteemed winner of the very prestigious 2025 A' Design Award in Silwer in Gasvryheid, Ontspanning, Reis en Toerisme Ontwerp Competition Category.

SilwerGasvryheid· 2025

Youhe Community Gasvryheidsontwerp

by Zhifeng Zhao

Client: ZHANG Qiang

A' Design Award in Silwer Winner in Gasvryheid Category

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Colors

The Design

About Youhe Community Gasvryheidsontwerp

Die Projek op Lotuseiland verweef behendig die pastorale bekoring met die idee van 'n landelike koöperatief, en bied 'n meeslepende landbou-toerisme ervaring. Die ontwerp beklemtoon volhoubaarheid en eenvoud, en versmelt die natuur met funksionele ruimtes. Die gebruik van handgetekende visuele elemente en natuurlike materiale skep 'n harmonieuse atmosfeer, terwyl die buigsame uitleg, insluitend terrase, leesgebiede en trapsgewyse sitplekke, ontspanning en sosiale interaksie bevorder. Deur estetiese aantrekkingskrag met praktiese funksionaliteit te balanseer, bied die projek besoekers 'n unieke verbinding met die natuur en Gemeenskap.

The Recognition

About the A' Design Award in Silwer

Youhe Community Gasvryheidsontwerp is 'n wenner van die A' Design Award in Silwer, 'n buitengewoon prestigieuse erkenning wat toegeken word aan topklas-, pragtige en indrukwekkende ontwerpe. Wenners in Silwer is geweldig briljante en uiters kreatiewe werke wat die uitstaande kundigheid, talent en skerpsinnigheid van hul ontwerpers illustreer. Daar word verwag dat Youhe Community Gasvryheidsontwerp 'n wonderlike vertoonstuk is wat merkwaardig professioneel en diepgaande innoverend is. Hierdie ontwerp wat die A' Design Award in Silwer gewen het, is 'n hoogs noemenswaardige, bewonderde uitvinding wat die grense van kuns, wetenskap, ontwerp en tegnologie bevoordeel en uitbrei. Youhe Community Gasvryheidsontwerp is 'n wyd beny skepping wat begeertes oproep, positiewe gevoelens bring en verbasing en verwondering wek.

Behind the Design

Press Kit

Credits, team members and technical details provided by the designer.

Unique Properties: This vibrant agro-tourism space on Lotus Island, Suzhou, blends pastoral beauty with the rural cooperative concept. The design uses hand-drawn illustrations and simple lines, with orange and white contrasts for a fresh look. The architecture combines repurposed materials and natural scenery, while wood and rattan interiors create a simple, nature-connected atmosphere. The space offers dining with views, a reading nook, and multi-functional areas for gatherings and study.
Dimensions & Packaging: The project occupies a single floor with a thoughtful layout. The main space faces the bar counter, flanked by IP product exhibition areas, creating a central, functional design. To the right, an open dining and viewing area features terraces by the window and built-in bookshelves, offering a cozy reading spot. Behind a soundproof curtain on the left, a tiered seating area provides a flexible space for events like study tours or social gatherings.
Tags: Tourism Complex, Landscape Design, Argo-tourism Space, Travel Design, Tourism Design
Production Technology: The overall cost control of the project is relatively low, and the design and construction are closely integrated during the process. The material control often uses old wood for renovation and reuse, which is also part of sustainable design.
Design Challenge: A key challenge of the design was the owner's limited budget, requiring careful cost control and strategic material selection. To address this, the design reused old materials, reducing costs while adding unique character and sustainability. Focused design elements were prioritized to maintain impact without exceeding the budget. Close collaboration with the construction team ensured a balance between design vision and practical constraints, maintaining high craftsmanship while adhering to financial limitations for a successful outcome.
Research: The early-stage research focused on co-creation, involving in-depth collaboration with stakeholders. This included discussions with the owner to meet practical needs and with the head of Lotus Island to integrate local characteristics. University students, especially younger groups, were engaged for fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. This multi-layered collaboration enriched the design approach, providing both a solid theoretical foundation and practical basis for the final outcome.
Inspiration: The project is inspired by the pastoral beauty of Lotus Island in Suzhou, with its serene lakes and lush landscapes. It also draws from the collective spirit of rural cooperatives, emphasizing shared efforts and sustainable development. This blend of nature and collaboration creates a vibrant, interactive agro-tourism space.
Project Duration: Project Duration:October 2023- December 2023
Location: Lotus Island, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
Operation Flow: Youhe Community is a rural revitalization project developed in collaboration with the local town government, becoming a model for rural redevelopment in Suzhou. Since its opening, the project has provided a new leisure destination for both local residents of Lotus Island and visitors. During the crab season, the area experiences a significant influx of people, highlighting its commercial value and popularity.
Image Credits: DENG Chun