Jiu Jian Tang (Mandarin Palace), Nanjing

This is a residential project that addresses authenticity in nature and culture. The planning of the villas responds intimately to the serene natural features of the site including a lake, wetland and hills with lush greenery. As a result the whole development merges with the natural landscape without much disturbance to the original topography. Culturally, the architectural design draws close reference to the Chinese courtyard house typology. The undulating roof feature is a contemporary reinterpretation of traditional house form whilst an intricate transition between interior and exterior is achieved by the arrangement by a hierarchy of courtyard spaces. The overall composition of villas thus created delivers the stately atmosphere of traditional courtyard  houses whilst harmonise modestly with nature at the same time.