This charming homestay, a heartfelt gift from a father to his daughter, combines traditional Jiangnan architectural elegance with modern comforts.

The idea of home becomes more and more important in a world where cities are teeming with color and commotion that both excite and overwhelm us.

Happiness, balance, vigor, and renewed energy can all be found at home. It offers both practical comfort and spiritual peace, protecting the body and mind in tandem.

A prime example of this attitude is Jinshang · XiShe Homestay, which is situated in Jinxi City, Kunshan’s Jijiadun Ancient Town.

The homestay, a father’s present to his daughter, strives to offer visitors a cozy, pleasant, and tranquil haven away from the bustle of city life.

Design Philosophy: Returning to True Nature

Jinshang · XiShe Homestay’s design captures the poetic charm of the sleepy water town south of the Yangtze River, reflecting a return to pure nature.

The 14 rooms of the homestay are each specially designed to blend in with the surroundings.

A communal dining area, a multipurpose room, a family amusement area, a coffee shop, and outdoor places such as a lawn and farm are among the common areas.

These areas seek to bring back the grace of the Chinese way of life, which is defined by understanding, wisdom, leisure, and awakening.

Enriched by rivers, lakes, and oceans, the Jiangnan water village’s soil breathes poetry into the air like a moving ink picture.

The interior areas combine natural wood, antique beams, blue slate, natural rattan, linen, and micro-cement textures to create a rustic atmosphere that embodies Jiangnan’s romantic feelings.

In addition to showcasing the lyrical beauty of peace, the design envelops visitors in the allure of the water town.

Harmonious Interaction Between Spaces

Using massive floor-to-ceiling windows and grilles to encourage a conversation with light and shadow and create a dynamic and harmonious mood, the design stresses the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces.

A greater awareness of life and a more profound perception of nature are evoked by the shifting light and shadow patterns in the area as the seasons change.

The refined Chinese way of life conveys a spiritual longing for the serenity of rural existence as well as an understanding of the spiritual significance of remaining loyal to oneself.

Embracing Nature and Tranquility

Jinshang · XiShe Homestay is surrounded by dazzling waters, verdant trees, and natural lakes.

The black tiles and white walls provide a picture-perfect rural setting that is evocative of the Fuchun mountain home.

The homestay is made up of four separate structures, each of which was created with consideration for the ancient town’s historical architectural layout and local features.

By carefully connecting these structures, the architectural landscape and the surrounding environment are blended together, creating new spatial relationships between the indoor and outdoor spaces.

Conversations between people and nature and place are encouraged by this combination. When you arrive at Jinshang · XiShe Homestay, time appears to stop.

The structures have the allure of Jiangnan lake towns, and the air is filled with a calm, relaxed vibe.

Every element—be it the air rustling the leaves or the light shining on the bluestone path—contributes to a feeling of comfort and tranquility.

Visitors are welcome to stay in peace, relax by the water, take in the surroundings, and read books.

A Sanctuary of Light and Wisdom

“Designers exist for the design of feelings and emotions,” remarked designer Naruhito Yoshioka once. “Design can lead to the subtle perception of emotions.”

This idea is demonstrated in Jinshang · XiShe Homestay, where the light’s utilitarian purpose in the room has profound spiritual and emotional meaning.

The aura of wisdom and light permeates the area, giving it a feeling of calm, direction, and time.

The platform in the corridor exudes a serene aesthetic consciousness that is linked to the beauty of wabi-sabi.

This lyrical home welcomes guests to freely and easily reconnect with nature, enabling them to discover who they really are.

Every building has a separate, spacious living space on the ground floor that is intended to be “quiet” by default.

The spirit of Zen is embodied in the natural textures and features that convey the subtle grace and ethereality of the Jiangnan water town.

Integrating Art and Nature

Heidegger, the philosopher, famously remarked, “People should inhabit the earth poetically; life is essentially poetic.”

The Jinshang · XiShe Homestay incorporates this concept into its design, embracing wide fields, forests, and rivers to create a calm and refined ambiance.

The area reminds me of the serene mountains that are mentioned in Wang Wei’s poetry; there, one can sit by themselves, take in the sound of the rain, and sense the balance that exists between nature and oneself.

The tea room at Jinshang · XiShe Homestay is a haven for Chinese people who value the little things in life.

Here, visitors can have a cup of tea, converse thoughtfully with the natural world, and progressively become more peaceful.

The layout perfectly captures the spirit of a peaceful existence, with each sort of space being specially designed to provide the perfect home that melds in with the surroundings.

A Journey Through Time and Space

Jinshang · XiShe A homestay provides a break from the hectic pace of the city and is more than just a place to stay. It is an adventure across space and time.

The houses front a crystal-clear lake, and the framed views from every room showcase the exquisite environment.

A serene ambiance permeates every inch of the room thanks to the space’s understated yet beautiful tone, which harmonizes with the surrounding natural surroundings.

In order to interpret the space and merge the natural scenery with the mood of living, the design makes use of color, order, and rhythm.

The room has a calm Zen sense and a new lease on life, much like a gentle breeze.

Visitors can sit by the lake and let their senses to be awakened to the beauty of nature while taking in the scenery’s transparency and purity.

Guests are taken to a realm where time passes more slowly as they stroll around the historic town of Jijiadun.

A special and unforgettable stay is guaranteed by the homestay’s dedication to maintaining the area’s architectural legacy while incorporating contemporary conveniences.

Jinshang · XiShe Homestay is a lyrical retreat that honors the simplicity and beauty of life, and it is a monument to the power of design in creating environments that uplift the body and spirit.

Experience tranquility like never before and embrace the picturesque retreat for your own home.