Dali Erhai Lake Ecological Rest Station: A Fusion of Ecological Architecture Design and Landscape Integration

Ecological architecture is a vital approach in contemporary building design, particularly in natural and culturally rich locations such as Dali, China. This architecture style integrates sustainable building practices with the natural environment to create functional yet harmonious spaces. One exemplary project that embodies this design philosophy is the Dali Erhai Lake Ecological Rest Station by line+ studio. Located along the southwest edge of Erhai Lake, this rest station is not only a functional service hub but also an innovative architectural response to the surrounding ecosystem.

The Vision of Ecological Architecture in Dali

The construction of the Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor aims to create a water-land buffer zone that acts as an ecological barrier, promoting environmental protection. The Erhai Lake Ecological Rest Station is part of this broader initiative and exemplifies how architectural intervention can minimally impact the landscape while providing valuable services. Designed with principles of ecological sustainability, the station emphasizes the seamless interaction between architecture, landscape, and local culture.

Anchoring and Suspension: A Response to Landscape and Climate

The architecture of the Dali Erhai Lake Ecological Rest Station unfolds from the land, responding directly to the natural surroundings. The building is designed to bridge the relationship between Erhai Lake in the front and Cangshan Mountain in the back. The architectural form gradually rises from the ground, providing panoramic views of the lake and mountain. This design utilizes the landscape to its advantage, creating a platform for observation and a space for brief stays. 

Additionally, the station's design incorporates climate-responsive strategies. The open space beneath the roof allows for natural air circulation, reducing the need for artificial cooling systems. The transparent design of the structure invites the surrounding scenery into the building, promoting a sense of integration between interior and exterior spaces.

Low-tech and Low-carbon Approach: Sustainable Materials and Construction

Sustainability is at the heart of the Dali Erhai Lake Ecological Rest Station's design. By integrating low-tech and low-carbon solutions, the building reduces its environmental impact while enhancing its connection to the local context. The use of locally sourced materials such as rubble stone, concrete, and wood ensures that the building is not only in harmony with the landscape but also constructed with minimal ecological disruption.

One of the key features of the station is its roof, which uses a folded plate structure that enables a large-span cantilever. This design allows for a spacious, airy feel within the building while maintaining the structural integrity necessary to withstand the region's climate. The roof is made of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) panels, ensuring durability and sustainability.

Ecological Design in Action: A Building That Breathes with Its Environment

The Dali Erhai Lake Ecological Rest Station employs a unique method of integrating ecological architecture with its environment. The walls of the building are constructed using limestone sourced locally, ensuring that the station remains grounded in its surroundings. The roof design incorporates a water drainage system that directs rainwater away from the structure, utilizing landscape supports to retain runoff space.

Additionally, the interior design of the rest station focuses on sustainability. Solid oak is used for doors and windows, ensuring both durability and aesthetic appeal. Even construction waste is repurposed: steel bars and plates leftover from the construction process are transformed into railings, stair steps, and other architectural features, giving new life to discarded materials.

The Role of the Station in Everyday Public Life

In the post-pandemic era, Dali has become a popular destination for digital nomads and travelers. The Erhai Lake Ecological Rest Station serves not only as a practical stop for travelers but also as a space that invites everyday public interaction. The building’s design fosters inclusivity, offering a space that is both welcoming and flexible. Whether for brief rest stops or as a hub for daily activities, the station supports a range of functions, including observation, social gathering, and relaxation.

With its simple, open design, the station has become an integral part of the Dali landscape. It offers more than just a place to rest; it represents a new approach to ecological architecture that emphasizes harmony between human activity and the natural world. By embracing openness and inclusivity, the station evolves into a "living landscape," a dynamic space that responds to the needs of both the environment and the people who use it.

The Dali Erhai Lake Ecological Rest Station is a shining example of how ecological architecture can be both functional and environmentally conscious. Through its minimalistic yet innovative design, the building integrates seamlessly into the natural landscape, offering a sustainable, low-tech, and low-carbon space. The station is more than just a rest stop; it is a testament to the potential of architecture to enhance the relationship between people and nature while fostering a sense of community.