Rustic Charm Inn - Boutique Hotel in Shanghai

The Rustic Charm Inn, a stunning project by Yuanxiuwan Architect & Associates, is nestled in a quaint village adjacent to Disney in Shanghai's Pudong district. This three-story boutique guesthouse hotel features only 16 meticulously designed rooms, having been transformed from four residential houses and pigsties. At the heart of this architectural marvel is an inward-looking courtyard, establishing a tranquil focal point that invites guests to unwind in its serene ambiance. The high stone walls to the west open the space to the city, while the incomplete walls to the north create an air of mystery and separation from the neighboring villages, allowing for introspection and a deeper connection with the environment.

The design of Rustic Charm Inn ingeniously extends several inner courtyards from the original structure, allowing for a unique interplay between indoor and outdoor spaces. One courtyard faces north and south, while the other spans east and west, enhancing the guest experience by providing privacy and tranquility. This thoughtful layout ensures that guests can enjoy both seclusion within the courtyards and a dynamic interaction with the changing cityscape around them. The courtyards serve as a selective dialogue between the internal and external environments, amplifying the sense of distance from the urban bustle and inviting guests to reconnect with nature.

The building showcases a seamless architectural logic, utilizing simple materials to create a cohesive aesthetic. The two roofs are interconnected, resulting in a harmonious flow throughout the structure. The transformation of the wooden houses results in a dynamic interplay of forms, while the white mechanism interspersed with wooden grilles creates a striking visual that evokes the sensation of floating among the clouds. An upward ramp leads guests’ eyes to the sky, mirroring the shape of the village behind and establishing a connection with the surrounding landscape. This dramatic steel plate ramp enhances the walking experience, adding dignity and a touch of wildness to the journey through the Inn.

Guest rooms on the second floor are designed with large window openings and floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing for uninterrupted views of the picturesque outdoor scenery. The north-south window view connects guests with the bamboo forest across the river and the untouched green spaces to the north, fostering a sense of harmony with nature. As guests traverse the expansive frame hole ramps, they are met with breathtaking views of the blue sky—a timeless reminder of the beauty that surrounds them. The shifting white walls not only erase the mundane memories of the past but also guide guests toward embracing the diverse natural beauty that encapsulates the Rustic Charm Inn.

In this enchanting sanctuary of Shanghai, time and troubles can fade away, leaving only the serene essence of the present moment. The Rustic Charm Inn, a creation of Yuanxiuwan Architect & Associates, invites guests to escape the ordinary and immerse themselves in a world where nature meets thoughtful architecture. This boutique hotel offers a unique experience that transcends typical accommodations, making it a destination where guests can truly feel at home amidst the tranquil beauty of their surroundings.

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