Shan Tea Factory Complex

Located among the misty tropical rainforests of Xishuangbanna in Yunnan province, China, the township of Yiwu is regarded as one of the pre-eminent Pu'er tea producing locales in China, with a history of tea-making spanning more than three centuries. Extensive natural forest coverage, high humidity, abundant sunshine, and the warm climate, has over centuries contributed to ideal environmental conditions for the highest quality Pu'er tea.

Here, on a 5 hectare mountain-top site adjacent to the Yiwu township, the high-end Pu'er tea manufacturer Shan Tea has proposed a new 23,000 m² production complex to accommodate its entire operations encompassing a tea production factory, a ceremonial hall & canteen, dormitories, as well as a reception centre and guest rooms where collaborators and distribution partners can partake in annual events.

The language of architecture is understated, robust, and rough - characterised by deep eaves and canopies, generous cantilevering balconies, and abundant open terraces. Features constitute a holistic response to local climatic conditions, not unlike most local architecture. A restrained material palette of reinforced concrete, glass, and locally sourced natural stone, bricks and tiles is used throughout the complex.

Individual buildings are carefully organized over the complex, steep terrain, making the most of available land and surrounding views. Buildings are nested layer by layer against the hilly terrain, standing up high on columns, like the local tradition of stilt houses. Multi-level floorplates, as generous as possible on a steep site, are carefully oriented with the undulating terrain.