Brickkiln Folk Inn And Museum Make Village Newborn

Brickkiln Folk Inn And Museum Make Village Newborn

Brickkiln Folk Inn and Museum Make Village Newborn is an innovative architectural renovation project that transformed an ancient brick kiln complex in Zhu Jiadian village, Jin Xi, China, into a cultural museum and folk inn, earning the prestigious Platinum A' Design Award in Interior Space and Exhibition Design. This comprehensive renovation project, completed in 2017, masterfully preserves and revitalizes the historical brick kiln culture of the Jiangnan region while introducing contemporary design elements and functionality. The design, led by Kevin Hu, seamlessly integrates native materials such as brick and bamboo to create a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. The cultural museum component, strategically positioned along the waterfront, features a multi-level space incorporating exhibition areas, meeting rooms, and educational facilities, while the folk inn comprises 20 rooms across 10 distinct buildings constructed using traditional Jiangnan light steel frame architecture. The project's innovative approach includes the integration of natural lighting through strategic skylights and floor-to-ceiling windows, creating dynamic interplay of light and shadow throughout the spaces. The design particularly excels in its thoughtful incorporation of local architectural elements and cultural significance, featuring varied spatial layouts including tatami mansions and themed study rooms that showcase Jiangnan culture. This renovation not only serves as a preservation of historical architecture but also functions as a catalyst for local rural development, providing a training center for rural makers and introducing novel amenities such as China's first kiln restaurant, complete with dining areas, wine cellar, and cigar bar.

architectural heritage, cultural preservation, sustainable renovation, traditional craftsmanship, contemporary design, rural revitalization

— Adam Dawson