Kipea Villa by Sanaxenho Architects in Nanjing, China

Project: Kipea Villa
Architects: Sanaxenho Architects
Location: Nanjing, China
Photography: Thomas Uusheimo

Kipea Villa by Sanaxenho Architects

Kipea Villa is a unique modern villa located by the lake in the Pearl Spring tourist and resort complex area in Nanjing. Developed by Sanaxenho Architects, this stunning villa stands out with its unusual facade made of exposed concrete and large glazed surfaces facing the lake.

The villa is part of CIPEA — the International Practical Architecture Exhibition of China. The exhibition takes place in the Pearl Spring zone. At the center of the exhibition space is a lake surrounded by green hills and fountains. The villa represents a resort-residential object that can also be used by artists for temporary residence during art creation, families or small groups for relaxation, meetings, seminars and short-term work.

The role of the building is to emphasize the existing natural environment. The villa reflects on the surface of the water.

Most public functions are located on the entrance level. The conference hall can be connected to the dining room by opening a sliding wall. The living room opens onto the lagoon through glass walls. Bedrooms are located on a level below the entrance level. The suite can also serve as an atelier for visiting artists. A two-level suite/atelier is located on the lowest level. The outdoor relaxation space is situated on the roof terrace.

The villa is clad in green patinated copper. Interior surfaces are made of local cherry wood. Local natural stone covers the lift tower, fireplaces and covered terrace.

The villa's purpose is to create a harmonious living experience in nature. The villa can also be seen as a boat left on the shore or as a Chinese lantern reflected in the lake's surface.

–Sanaxenho Architects