fbpx
Close

Something Old, Something New

WAY Studio redefines Beijing’s courtyard heritage with modern elegance

Located near the historic imperial palace and juxtaposed against the bustling commercial hub of Wangfujing, WAY Studio has transformed an old, secluded courtyard into a vibrant micro-mixed-use urban complex. Courtyard 35 honours the rich heritage of Beijing’s siheyuan (traditional courtyards) while challenging conventional notions of preservation. WAY Studio approached the design with the philosophy that preserving tradition is not about replicating historical forms but about fostering a spirit of innovation. By introducing new elements into the courtyard’s existing spatial order, the studio has created an interplay of old and new, exploring the relationship between natural and man-made spaces.

The courtyard’s undulating form is inspired by natural curves, creating a fluid dialogue between architecture and the natural environment

Originally an introverted, irregular courtyard marked by fragmented renovations, the space has been redefined with a focus on negative space. Rather than altering the existing buildings, the design centres on the cloud bridge, a striking installation that floats above the courtyard. This intervention reshapes the spatial flow, transforming the courtyard into a public gathering space and reconnecting it to the urban fabric of the city.

Serving as the heart of the transformation, the cloud bridge is both a functional structure and an artistic statement. Its organic, undulating form is inspired by natural curves, creating a fluid dialogue between architecture and the natural environment. Floating above the courtyard and embracing two towering ancient trees, the bridge offers visitors a fresh perspective, abstracting the surrounding architecture into a surreal landscape.

The reflective surfaces of the cloud bridge distort and reinterpret the traditional skyline, blending rooftops and treetops into a seamless, dreamlike composition. This design introduces a sense of elevation, allowing users to experience the courtyard from a vantage point that feels suspended between earth and sky.

The renovated courtyard is more than an architectural statement – it is a functional and dynamic urban space. Designed with a degree of ambiguity to maximise flexibility, the project incorporates four core components, including a coffee and teashop in the original guardhouse, an exhibition shop and restaurant as well as a VIP room and cultural exchange studio. These elements create a seamless integration of modern amenities with traditional spatial principles, catering to contemporary needs while fostering social interaction and cultural exchange.

The restaurant that forms part of the urban space

The design for Courtyard 35 is also an attempt to explore Chinese aesthetic values, allowing people to break free from the conventional impression of ‘Chinese space’ and instead embark on an imaginative journey between modern functionality and the abstract and more impressionistic aspects of Chinese aesthetics. Chinese values are honoured by the flexibility of the space, where experience and functionality are integrated in a state of flux. The space invites visitors on an inspirational voyage, celebrating the fluidity of Chinese aesthetics and the harmony between functionality and experience.

Images by Yuan Gao, Zeng Hao and AkunLee

Read more architecture features here.

The Latest
4 hours ago
Downtown Design Riyadh 2025

Downtown Design expands to Saudi Arabia with Downtown Design Riyadh 2025

Downtown Design, the Middle East’s leading fair for contemporary and high-quality design, is set to make its debut in Saudi Arabia.

6 hours ago

id50 2025 – Jassim AlSaddah

Meet Jassim AlSaddah, Founding Partner and Creative Director at Babnimnim Design Studio.

11 hours ago

id50 2025 – Reem Al Qamzi

Meet Reem Al Qamzi, Founder of Rqitects.

11 hours ago

id50 2025 – Altqadum

Meet Altqadum, the debut entrant on our id50 power list for 2025, consisting of the region's best architects, interior designers, firms and product designers.

12 hours ago
The Fifth Designs Unveils A Modern Seesaw Art Installation in Al Serkal Avenue

The Fifth Designs Unveils A Modern Seesaw Art Installation in Alserkal Avenue

Playfulness meets creativity at this art installation that marries precision engineering with evocative storytelling.

February 4, 2025

Presenting the id50 2025

This year, we celebrate the interior designers, architects and product designers from the region on our radar.

February 3, 2025
Editor's note - The Power Issue - February 2025

Read ‘The Power Issue’ – Note from the editor

This month, we celebrate the interior designers, architects and product designers from the region on our radar; from emerging talent to the visionaries and the global firms with local presence.

January 31, 2025
Philippe Delhomme, SAFI

An interview with Philippe Delhomme at Maison&Objet 2025

We discuss the new approach of Maison&Objet in 2025 at the fair with the Chairman of SAFI

January 31, 2025

Textures That Transform

Aura Living’s AW24 collection showcases the elegance of contrast and harmony

January 31, 2025

Form Meets Function

LAUFEN prioritises design, functionality and sustainability in its latest collections

Art
January 30, 2025

Preserving Culture, Inspiring Creativity

Discover the Legacy of a Saudi Art Space: Prince Faisal bin Fahd Arts Hall explores the Hall’s enduring influence on the cultural fabric of Saudi Arabia

January 29, 2025
In Design With | identity podcast | Editor of identity, Aneesha Rai and Architect and Founder of the Courtyard, Dariush Zandi

identity launches new podcast – ‘In Design With’

The first episode is with architect Dariush Zandi, architect and founder of The Courtyard