The Newly Added Structure Graces the Old Sugar Mill, Alila Yangshuo

Envisioned by the urge to preserve an industrial heritage, Vector Architects adds a new structure to the old sugar mill, Alila Yangshuo, representing the spirit of the older generation and enhancing its beauty with a touch of contemporary design.  

Alila Yangshuo, Photo by Hao Chen

Surrounded by a picturesque natural landscape, Alila Yangshuo sits on one of the most typical karst regions, near the Li River in Yangshuo, Guangxi. It is an old sugar mill built in the 1960s which is then beautifully preserved with an industrial truss used for sugar cane transport.

Alila Yangshuo, Photo by Hao Chen

A newly added suite building and villa were built to encircle the old one that sits on the central part of the complex. The old structure further being elevated by the presence of the sunken plaza and reflecting pond that accentuate its spiritual symbolism and the significance of the old structure. This arrangement creates a promenade experience throughout the complex.

The view of the existing building and the new one, Photo by Hao Chen

Aerial view of Alila Yangshuo with the new structure, Photo by Hao Chen

The new structure added next to the old one, Photo by Hao Chen

The reflecting pond, Photo by Shengliang Su

Designed with simplicity, the new structure keeps the consistency with the original roof shape to blend with the old structure. The longitudinal shape of the suite building and villa allows the visitors to wander around the building complex freely and enjoy the beautiful view of Karst Mountain. The utilization of contemporary materials and construction methods, adds a touch of contemporary to this building complex. The hollow concrete block and wood-formed cast-in-place concrete serve as a lighter volume that balances with the old structure while also providing optimal natural light and air circulation inside the building.

The new structure, Photo by Shengliang Su

The new structure, Photo by Hao Chen

Site plan

Upper floor plan