Wulingshan Eye Stone Spring Spa by Vector Architects:

Vector Architects has unveiled the Wulingshan Eye Stone Spring Spa, an architectural masterpiece designed to blend seamlessly with the natural beauty of Yanshi Village in Aranya, China. Inspired by the essence of a hot spring apparatus, the spa reflects a harmonious balance of innovation, sustainability, and contextual sensitivity.

An Elevated Design Amidst Nature

Located in a lush river valley surrounded by cliffs and forests in Wuling Mountain, the spa’s 560-square-meter structure rises above the forest floor on tall columns. This elevation not only mitigates flood risks but also offers guests panoramic views of the vibrant poplar canopies and rugged cliffs. The tower’s vertical design accommodates the site’s limited space and sloping terrain, layering its main facilities across multiple levels.

A Textured Connection to the Environment

The spa’s exterior features bush-hammered concrete walls, a technique that imparts a coarse, rugged texture resonating with the neighboring cliffs. To further enhance its grounded appearance, the concrete is finished with a dark-toned, transparent coating. According to Dong Gong, founder of Vector Architects, this approach adds depth and strength to the structure while fostering a tactile connection to its surroundings.

Light and Spatial Organization

The design cleverly utilizes natural light, addressing the challenge posed by the 30-meter-high poplar trees that cast substantial shade. Spaces that benefit from subdued lighting, such as dressing rooms, reception, and shower facilities, are placed on the lower levels.

Ascending to the second floor, visitors encounter a relaxation lounge enclosed in floor-to-ceiling glass, immersing them in close-up views of the tree canopies. The third floor houses the bath pools, each designed with varying temperatures and situated beneath eight chimney-style lightwells that filter natural light into the space. Strip windows on the west facade provide glimpses of the nearby cliffs and treetops, enhancing the spa’s tranquil ambiance.

A Complex “Apparatus” of Architecture

Described by Gong as functioning “more like an apparatus,” the spa is a meticulously structured interior with intricately coordinated systems. Its compact yet efficient design creates a rich spatial experience, likened to the precision of a mechanical watch.

Sustainability Considerations

Addressing the use of concrete—a material known for its environmental impact—Gong emphasized its practicality and cultural relevance in China. Despite the high carbon footprint, concrete remains widely favored due to its cost efficiency and durability.

Part of a Larger Vision in Aranya

The Wulingshan Eye Stone Spring Spa joins a series of iconic projects by Vector Architects in the exclusive Aranya resort, including the renowned Seaside Chapel and a concrete concert hall in Qinhuangdao. These projects collectively underscore the firm’s commitment to crafting spaces that engage meaningfully with their natural and cultural contexts.

A Retreat for the Senses

From its elevated design to its interplay of textures and light, the Wulingshan Eye Stone Spring Spa offers guests a retreat that transcends traditional architectural experiences. It stands as a testament to how thoughtful design can connect people with nature while addressing the practicalities of modern construction.

Photography by Guowei Liu captures the serene and intricate beauty of this exceptional spa, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its tranquil embrace.