In a remarkable architectural endeavor, Team BLDG has reimagined two existing rural residences on the outskirts of Shanghai, transforming them into a distinctive guesthouse known as The Catcher. This project seamlessly integrates three new structural additions with the original buildings. Situated near the historic town of Xinchang in Pudong, the 11-room establishment offers breathtaking vistas of expansive rice paddies to its south and east, fostering a deep connection with the agrarian scenery.
Team BLDG's vision for The Catcher centered on harmonizing the structure with its natural environment and the surrounding rural architecture. The design approach involved simplifying the original facades' forms and color schemes, while strategically incorporating natural elements. Lead architect Xiao Lei noted the use of natural materials in specific areas to echo the inherent purity of the landscape. The team meticulously preserved much of the existing infrastructure, including the charming gable-roofed bungalow at the property's entrance, demonstrating a commitment to working within budgetary constraints and minimizing extensive alterations. The newly introduced volumes serve as communal areas, while a unifying perimeter wall thoughtfully delineates the site.
Emphasizing sustainability and local heritage, the architects opted for indigenous materials and construction techniques. Wood, stone, and bamboo are prominent throughout the property. Lei highlighted the use of textured water-borne sand finish for the white exterior walls, a common practice in the region, along with bamboo fences and gates crafted using traditional local methods. Stone-clad surfaces, typically seen in landscape walls, were employed for utility shafts, and many interior finishes were left in their natural state, mirroring the simplicity of local rural construction.
A critical aspect of The Catcher's design was establishing dynamic connections between interior and exterior realms. Strategically placed gaps between the courtyard and the buildings create pathways that interlink various indoor and outdoor zones. Within the entrance lobby, a pre-existing sunken space was ingeniously converted into a comfortable seating area. Large glass panels flood this space with natural light, offering unobstructed views of the courtyard. Beyond the main building, a new volume houses shared amenities such as a dining room, tea room, and games room, enriching the guest experience.
Guest rooms are primarily situated on the south side of The Catcher, maximizing exposure to natural light, while ancillary and circulation areas occupy the north. Each room is thoughtfully designed with a private outdoor space, whether a courtyard, balcony, or rooftop terrace, and features carefully positioned windows to frame picturesque views. The interiors maintain a minimalist aesthetic, combining light, neutral walls with parquet wooden flooring and bespoke furniture, including beds set on wooden platforms. This design philosophy aims to differentiate the guesthouse from typical urban hotels, prioritizing authenticity and a direct relationship with nature, offering guests a tranquil and immersive experience. The furniture pieces are also designed to be as versatile and adaptable as possible, further enhancing functionality.