Youxiong Hotel in Chaozhou Heritage City by Leeko Studio: A Harmonious Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Preserving Cultural Heritage Through Architecture

Nestled in the heart of Chaozhou Heritage City, Youxiong Hotel, designed by Leeko Studio, masterfully combines traditional Chinese garden aesthetics with contemporary architectural elements. This hotel renovation project respects historical structures while introducing a modern touch, enhancing the city's cultural landscape.

Architectural Vision: A Dialogue Between Past and Present

Located beside Chun Garden and the historic Rao family residence, Youxiong Hotel consists of five distinct buildings:

• Free House – A renovated 1980s structure transformed into a centralized guesthouse.
• 301 Courtyard (Not Arrogant, Not Boring) – A two-courtyard guesthouse integrating heritage and comfort.
• 303 Tonghua Book House – A Chaozhou-style check-in center and reading space.
• 278 Courtyard (Refreshing and Open-Minded) – Two courtyard houses offering a serene retreat.
• Three-Story House – Home to a restaurant, bar, and tea house, celebrating local cuisine and traditions.

These structures form a narrow yet immersive spatial experience, engaging visitors in a seamless journey through the historical urban fabric of Chaozhou.

Scenic Borrowing: A Timeless Architectural Technique

A key feature of Youxiong Hotel’s design is the use of "scenery borrowing" (借景, jiè jǐng)—a classical Chinese technique that frames and integrates surrounding landscapes into the built environment. The Square Pavilion in Chun Garden, visible from various vantage points, serves as a poetic focal point, echoing the visual storytelling found in Song Dynasty paintings like Waiting for Crossing the Creek in Autumn.

Elements such as the Fire Alley, Moon Cave Gate, and a 200-year-old Pingpu tree enhance the spatial narrative, encouraging guests to wander through layered perspectives of history and nature.

Modern Minimalism Meets Chaozhou Tradition

Leeko Studio introduces modern architectural elements while respecting the heritage context. Key design strategies include:

• Material Contrast: A combination of concrete, wood, brick, and metal creates a refined interplay between old and new.
• Color Palette: Light wood tones replace traditional dark finishes, fostering a warm, inviting atmosphere.
• Contemporary Interiors: Custom-designed furniture, modern lighting, and curated artworks elevate the guest experience.

Unlike conventional hotel rooms, Youxiong Hotel replaces televisions with books, offering guests a space for contemplation and cultural immersion.

Craftsmanship and Cultural Revival

The renovation integrates traditional Chaozhou craftsmanship, collaborating with local artisans to restore architectural details. Contributions include:

• Master Xiao Chuming – Wooden structures and pavilions.
• Master Ding – Restoration of historic walls and gates.
• Master Huang Qiuquan – Handmade Chaozhou lanterns, continuing a centuries-old craft.

By working with these artisans, Youxiong Hotel not only preserves historical techniques but also revitalizes Chaozhou’s living heritage.

A Challenging Yet Rewarding Transformation

Despite the small 2,479 m² footprint, this heritage renovation project faced significant challenges, including structural constraints, fire safety regulations, and on-site construction limitations. The design team engaged in continuous adjustments and hands-on site supervision, ensuring that every detail aligned with the original vision.

The result is a seamless integration of architecture, nature, and history, where the hotel and its surroundings appear as one cohesive landscape.

An Invitation to Experience Chaozhou’s Timeless Beauty

More than just a place to stay, Youxiong Hotel offers guests an opportunity to experience Chaozhou’s architectural heritage, tea culture, and artistic legacy in an immersive, contemplative setting. Through a harmonious blend of past and present, the hotel becomes a living narrative of the city’s evolution.

All Photographs are works of Yong Zhang, Yikao Li