MUDA-Architects hold a deep reverence for the genius loci and the inherent context of each project, and this design philosophy is exemplified profoundly in Younch Hotel. The design encapsulates functionality coupled with oriental aesthetics, all comprehensively bounded within the historical fabric and spiritual symbolism of Xi'an, previously known as Chang'an. As the capital city of 13 historical dynasties, most notably the Tang Dynasty, Chang'an carries a significant historical heritage.
In the realization of Younch Hotel, MUDA has woven together materials traditional to the region like reclaimed wood, natural stone, and local dyeing textile art. The blend of these time-honored elements with modern technology enables the creation of a hospitable space that bridges the connection between nature and history, innovation and tradition.
The public spaces are characterized by the harmonious interplay of function and comfort. The design highlights nature and tranquility through its sunken courtyard garden and adjoining tearoom area. As a refuge for weary souls, the garden brings forth a sense of tranquility with its seasonal flowers, water features, and lotus flowers. It promptly establishes an environment that encourages relaxation by detaching occupants from the usual urban stressors. On a functional level, elements like the wooden-framed glass partition offer flexibility. It can be freely adjusted to connect interior and exterior spaces when desired.
One of the key design attributes of the hotel is the careful employment of rectangular windows. They vary in size and proportion to ensure the optimal introduction of natural light. Also, a beautiful and patterned drama of light and shadow unfolds within the circumference of the sunken courtyard garden. The upper floor hosts a spectacle of the city through large windows that offer robust views of the ancient city wall. A bronze-hued spiral staircase leads to the basement, uncovering spaces allocated for dining, socializing, and dessert indulgence.
Accommodation has been tailored for the needs of leisure and business travelers, focusing primarily on detail and texture. The rooms incorporate warm wood wall and flooring finishes and terra-color textured paint to instill a welcoming atmosphere. The curvature of the sloping ceiling continues from the lobby to the interior of king bed suites. Natural light filters in, softly glancing off the curve and subtly illuminating the room. Each room is decorated with exquisitely curated Chang'an art pieces, including dyed silk paintings, landscape or architectural illustrations, and artisan ceramic works, paring with carefully selected antique furniture.
Material selection prioritizes sustainability, like reclaimed wood and locally-sourced stone. Coupled with energy-saving lighting systems and wastewater recycling practices, the hotel's commitment to environmental protection is accomplished to its maximum without interfering basic functions.
Younch Hotel
MUDA-Architects
Silver
Silver

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Mark Eric Magno
Principal
at Aedas Interiors
I love the way the architect used n...
8
8
9
8.5
8.38

Arthur Guimarães
Chief Executive Officer
at Arthur Guimarães Architects
The genius loci is reflected in the...
9
9.5
8.5
9
9

Jessica Adkins
Brand Experience Design Lead Europe
at M Moser Associates
8.5
8.5
8.5
8.5
8.5

Josse Popma
Partner
at Popma ter Steege Architects
7
7
7
7
7

Xuechen Chen
Architectural Designer
at X.C Studio
The interplay of natural and artifi...
8
8.6
8.5
8
8.28

Serhii Makhno
Founder
at MAKHNO Studio
8
7
9
8
8

Mariana Schimidt
Founder
at MNMA studio
10
10
10
6.92
9.23

Zizhao Li
Cofounder and Chief Designer
at DSC · Design
8
7
7
8
7.5

Pooja Shah-Mulani
Partner and Design Director
at LW Design
6.5
8.5
7
7
7.25

Burton Baldridge
Founder
at Baldridge Architects
Simultaneously restrained and exube...
9
9
9
7
8.5

Wenqing Zhou
Founder
at Add Culture & Creative Development
7.5
8
8
8
7.88

Mike McGirr
Managing Partner and Design Principal
at red design
7.38
8.72
7.11
5.13
7.09

Anna Gitelman
Associate Professor
at Suffolk University
Beautiful combination of materials...
9
9
8
7
8.25

Katie Mitchell
Managing Director
at Seen Studios
8
8
7
8
7.75

Suvi Saloniemi
Head of Exhibitions
at Finnish Museum of Architecture and Design Museum
6
7
7
5
6.25
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Harkaran Singh Boparai
Founder
at Space 5
7
7.5
7.5
7
7.25

Yan Zhang
Cofounder
at say architects
7.33
7.23
7.13
7.23
7.23

Jianan Shan
Cofounder
at say architects
6.61
7.23
7.85
6.5
7.05

Ronnie Belizaire
Studio Practice Leader and Principal
at HKS Inc.
7.82
8.25
8
7.32
7.85

Ismael Abedin Ingelmo
Founder and Director
at DXMID
7.82
8.1
7.95
7.32
7.8

Pooja Shah-Mulani
Partner and Design Director
at LW Design
7.82
8.1
7.95
7.32
7.8

Louisa Fan
Director of Design Luxury and Lifestyle Brand
at IHG ® Hotels & Resorts
7.82
8.1
7.95
7.32
7.8

Arthur Guimarães
Chief Executive Officer
at Arthur Guimarães Architects
I reaffirm my position as I comment...
7.82
8.1
7.95
7.32
7.8
Location
Designer
Client
Younch Hotel
Floor area
3000 ㎡
Completion
2023
Finishes
Finishes