Si Wi: Revitalizing Fuzhou’s Century-Old Tea Factory Through Space and Time

"Si Wi" embodies letting go and introspection. This space exudes an ancient and serene charm, fostering inner peace. History's weight reminds us of our roots and future path, serving as the cornerstone of our soul.

Youth Square, situated prominently on the city's central axis, stands as a unique focal point. Across the river, it faces the Museum of International Architecture on Yantai Mountain, with Shangxiahang, the birthplace of Fujian merchants' spirit, at its back. "Si Wi" a boat-inspired structure, proudly stands here, docked in the river of historical time. It bridges the gap between the new and the old, the interior and the exterior, standing apart yet connected.

The design retains the original red-brick walls, sloped roof framework, and tea warehouse layout. Vertical windows cover 75% of the public areas, providing natural daylight with zero energy consumption. The reservation of the original ventilation system reduces the air conditioning load by 30%. Recycled elm wood is used for cladding and support columns, preserving the texture of historical architecture and reducing the consumption of new materials. The original wooden planks were repurposed as loft flooring.

Locally recycled old tiles, unique to southern Fujian, are layered to form cultural walls and exhibition platforms. They are rejuvenated within, contrasting with the mottled exterior, and evoking a sense of emotional depth. Like tree rings or wall inscriptions, they record the past and promise the future, with neither a beginning nor an end.

Since the Tang Dynasty, Fuzhou has thrived in overseas trade, and following the Opium War, it emerged as one of the pioneer ports open to foreign commerce, rendering boats as an undeniably resplendent emblem of the city. The designer has masterfully incorporated this city's essence and imagery into the project's design.

Two symbolic “ships”narrate the maritime history of Fuzhou’s tea trade: a sail-shaped bar represents the Ocean Ship,” bringing Southeast Asian influences, while the traditional tea platform represents the “Inland Ship,” embodying local tea culture. Here, East meets West in a dynamic story told through space and time.

Modular tables and chairs in the back hall allow the space to transform seamlessly for tea culture salons, event hosting, or cultural markets.

With night's descent, paper lanterns emit a warm glow, like a beacon on the sea or a loved one's embrace. An immersive urban history theater created by combining suspended canvas ceilings and digital projections.

The terrace, backed by breathtaking scenery, offers flexible seating arrangements, embracing the rich tapestry of urban cultural life, including monthly outdoor film screenings, tea culture salons, and community cultural activities.

Design crafts a soulful haven. Here, tea, wine, and moments all find their spiritual home. Si Wi, a vessel of city's nature and culture, will evolve into a novel way of life with time.