In the heart of Qianshan, Anhui, stands the Doumu Pottery Factory, a testament to China’s rich ceramic tradition dating back 6,000 years to the Xuejiagang culture. Recently, Greyspace Architects, under the invitation of esteemed figures like LI Jianshen, embarked on a journey to rejuvenate this historical site. Tasked with constructing the ICH Lounge and revitalizing the dragon kiln roof structure, the architects faced the delicate balance of preserving tradition while adapting to contemporary needs.
Reviving Tradition: ICH Lounge and Dragon Kiln
The renovation project presented dual challenges: modernizing the infrastructure without compromising the essence of the site’s heritage. The ICH Lounge, with its predetermined foundation, demanded a meticulous approach to integrate modern functionalities while maintaining the original architectural integrity. Simultaneously, the aging dragon kiln required a renewal to ensure structural soundness and aesthetic appeal, all while accommodating new operational requirements.
Honoring History: Doumu’s Ceramic Legacy
The Doumu Pottery Factory’s legacy as a national intangible cultural heritage site served as the guiding principle throughout the renovation process. The architects meticulously preserved traditional firing techniques while infusing contemporary design elements into the space. The ICH Lounge’s spatial layout was reimagined to enhance accessibility and interaction, fostering a seamless indoor-outdoor experience for visitors.
Innovative Solutions: Balancing Tradition and Modernity
Central to the project was the preservation of the dragon kiln’s original structure while incorporating modern amenities. By reimagining the roof frame using herringbone pine timber, the architects not only ensured structural stability but also created a new vantage point for visitors to observe the firing process. The addition of a visiting path atop the kiln allowed for unobtrusive exploration while safeguarding the kiln’s historical significance.
Spatial Dynamics: Creating Immersive Experiences
The redesign aimed to enhance visitor engagement by orchestrating fluid spatial narratives. By strategically positioning viewing platforms and walkways, the architects crafted a dynamic journey through the factory. Visitors traverse the kiln’s perimeter, witnessing the interplay between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design, all while enjoying panoramic views of Tianzhu Mountain.
Material Expression: Bridging Past and Present
Drawing inspiration from the factory’s rich material palette, the architects sought to encapsulate Doumu’s heritage in every detail. From the texture of kiln bricks to the curvature of clay pots, every element served as a testament to the site’s storied past. The ICH Lounge, with its ‘kiln’-themed spaces, seamlessly integrated traditional motifs into a modern architectural framework, offering visitors a holistic experience of Doumu’s cultural heritage.
Towards the Future: A Living Legacy
As the project nears completion, it stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of tradition and innovation. By preserving Doumu’s intangible cultural heritage and revitalizing its architectural landmarks, Greyspace Architects has ensured that future generations can continue to experience the magic of the millennial dragon kiln. In embracing the past while embracing the future, Doumu Pottery Factory emerges as a timeless beacon of cultural preservation and architectural excellence.
