Intense urbanization in China creates harsh environment for human inhabitation. At the edge of Yunnan province, the scenic Tengchong provides a poetic alternative. 
泊度 (Bodu) in Chinese means providing a place for rest. And that is exactly what the Bodu hotel brand aims to provide, a place to meditate close to nature.
We try not to intervene with the natural environment, but rather compliment it with our design. The various buildings on site mimics the rising hills of Tengchong. Being connected by continuous wooden canopy, these buildings in succession reminds the occupant of the outposts on the ancient silk road. 
The entry to the hotel also falls under the wooden canopy. We created an overhanging platform that extends over the cliff on which the hotel is built. There are multiple public spaces like this throughout the hotel that offer breathtaking views out to the flatland and mountain ranges. Each space is carefully crafted to inspire emotions and a sense of awe. We also utilized the reflective property of water to compress the distant scenery, connecting nature with living spaces. 
The historic Tengchong is inseparable from the ancient silk road. Many of Tengchong’s charms come from its rich culture, which inspired many poets and calligraphers. We wanted to respect the cultural heritage of the place, so instead of overdesigning the interior spaces, we simply wanted to utilize atmosphere and emotions to do the story telling. The hotel reception and the adjacent resting area reminds one of a cozy pavilion in the evening, open to the landscape, yet protected from the elements by earthy materials. Warm colors dominate the space, and the sense of comfort is anchored by the fireplace in the middle. 
The first floor restaurant has the best view outside. The stone walls and the wooden table sets the tone for the rustic environment. Lights above the table are veiled by silk to soften any harsh shadows. The café and tea room occupy the second floor. All spaces are framed with careful considerations of vegetation and view outside. There are a total of 32 rooms in the hotel. All surfaces are unique to touch with local materials and natural textures. 
We wanted to slow down the passing of time and immerse the occupants in the simple environment rich with emotions.
The soul of the project is not about “our design”, but reside in the experience offered by the local cultural and natural heritage. We wanted to bring people closer to Tengchong, and in essence, closer to themselves.