Rejuvenate the Countryside is located in Hancheng, the capital of Hanshan County in Southeast China. It addresses the issues brought about by rapid urbanization, where villages are increasingly absorbed by nearby cities, risking the loss of traditional rural life. The design aims to create a thoughtful urban planning strategy that revitalizes the countryside while integrating new economic opportunities such as tourism and e-commerce. The focus is on developing a village typology that honors local culture and heritage.

Community Design Approach

The design focuses on building a sense of community by creating spaces for social interaction among residents. Key features include a Farmers Market and Bike Rental, a renovated Tea House and Handicraft Workshop, a Duck Farm and Fishing Hut, and shared areas for gatherings like meetings and local performances. These public spaces enhance community ties, offering residents opportunities to come together and celebrate their traditions.

Housing Organization

The arrangement of housing is deliberate, with homes grouped in clusters based on social relationships. This layout strengthens connections between families and encourages interactions. The design counters the isolation often found in dense urban living. It fosters a welcoming environment where people feel a sense of belonging.

Environmental Considerations

Thoughtful attention is given to the surrounding landscape. The design maintains clear sightlines to farmland and the nearby river, ensuring that the beauty of the natural environment is preserved. By creating gaps between buildings, residents can enjoy unobstructed views. This focus on landscape connection not only enhances the visual appeal but also deepens the relationship between the community and its environment.

Material Usage

Material selection plays a critical role in the design, emphasizing local resources that reflect the area’s identity. Stone foundations connect the homes to traditional building practices. Steel frames sourced from the nearby Maanshan Steel factory provide structural support and construction efficiency. Wooden trusses selected from local sources tie back to the region's architectural history, creating a coherent sense of place.

In common gathering spaces, features like open-air porches and areas for community events invite interaction. These details reflect rural traditions while accommodating modern life, creating a balanced approach to living in a revitalized countryside.