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Nature, Sustainability, and Design
Xinyue Geng, an award-winning architectural designer and artist, has made significant contributions to the world of architecture through her work across China, the UK, and the US. Currently a designer at Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates, she is known for her innovative projects that have earned global acclaim. Her latest work, titled Forest Float, brings her vision of combining sustainability with aesthetic beauty to life in a way that captivates the imagination and reconnects people with nature.
Forest Float is a treehouse located in the scenic Huangshan Resort, blending the serenity of a traditional teahouse with the cosy atmosphere of a vacation retreat. The design reflects a desire to provide an escape from the noise and chaos of modern life, creating a peaceful sanctuary for those seeking a deeper connection with nature.
Perched among the trees, this innovative structure invites guests to relax in the forest canopy, where they can fully immerse themselves in the beauty of their surroundings. The unique design, with its elevated position and seamless integration into the natural environment, encourages visitors to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the tranquillity that nature offers.
The inspiration behind Forest Float draws from childhood memories of treehouses, evoking feelings of nostalgia while offering a dreamlike escape from daily life. The design also features a stunning curved bamboo surface, resembling a cocoon suspended delicately among the branches. Its hanging structure creates an elegant, floating effect as if the treehouse were an alien ship gliding through the forest. The natural materials used in construction, sourced locally from the bamboo-rich region of Huangshan, emphasise sustainability while maintaining regional authenticity.
Xinyue Geng's Forest Float speaks to a broader mission of rekindling humanity's connection with nature. In a rapidly urbanising world, the project serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the environment and creating spaces where people can reconnect with the earth. Forest Float is not only a beautifully designed treehouse but also a symbol of architectural innovation that values both sustainability and serenity.
Credits
Entry Title: Forest Float
Entrant Company: Xinyue Geng
Winning Category: Architectural Design - Sustainable Living / Green
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