studio8 architecture's resort villas nestle amid pine forests and bamboo mountains in china

a boutique resort immersed in china’s natural landscape

Anadu Pine Villa is situated in a secluded valley a two-hour drive from Shanghai, China, enveloped by pine forests and shielded by a mountain draped in bamboo. This boutique resort by Studio8 Architects comprises three elegantly designed guest suites, complemented by a refined wine and cigar bar. In line with Anadu’s philosophy of ‘Find yourself in nature,’ the practice’s objective — from planning to architectural design — was to showcase and harmonize with the unique beauty of the forests.

The buildings are thoughtfully positioned along the valley’s contours, each oriented to capture unique views. At the entrance, a bamboo-textured, concrete and charred black wood L-shaped gate harmoniously merges with the landscape, welcoming guests with open arms while embracing the greenery on one side.

Anadu Pine Villa is enveloped by pine forests and shielded by a mountain draped in bamboo

studio8 architects’ design echoes the old structure’s character

Originally, an abandoned old house stood where Anadu Pine Villa’s wine house now sits. To honor the site’s history, Shanghai-based Studio8 Architects’ new building echoes the old structure’s gabled roof, redesigned into a four-sloped form that creates a harmonious, tranquil scale from every angle. In pleasant weather, glass doors can be fully opened to integrate the plaza into the indoor space. The walls are entirely glass, maximizing the views, while the northeast dining area faces a quieter hillside, and the semi-enclosed lounge provides a more private atmosphere.

A curved bamboo-textured wall leads guests from the wine house to the guest area, where the hard ground transitions into soft gravel paths, evoking a vacation atmosphere. At the path’s end, a small plaza provides a moment of pause before entering the guest area, enhancing the sense of seclusion. The three minimal standalone structures sit quietly in the valley, surrounded by the forest. Facing staggered walls that obscure the rear of the space, guests are invited to imagine what lies beyond.

two concrete slabs face the valley with no obstructions

the concrete villas frame views of the valley

As guests walk through the courtyard and winding paths, they experience a series of mysterious moments before reaching the guest rooms. Upon entering, the view dramatically opens up — two concrete slabs face the valley with no obstructions. The interior flows seamlessly with 270-degree panoramic views, offering a fully immersive experience. The rooms are embraced by nature on three sides, each framing its own unique view. To keep the structure minimal, Studio8 Architects cast the buildings from exposed concrete with integrated beams and embedded piping, ensuring no visible ceiling beams, lighting fixtures, or suspended structures. The clean concrete slabs unify the space. The floor slab floats above the valley, respecting and connecting with the terrain, while appearing to hover above it.

Through the glass doors, each room opens onto a private backyard in the pine forest — a floating outdoor deck, offering a further connection to the valley. The eaves extend into a shaded area, blending the indoors with nature. Further, the landscape design softens the boundaries between the estate and its surroundings, using native valley plants to integrate seamlessly into the environment. Discreet lighting, resembling fireflies, dots the pathways and grounds, enhancing the serene, secluded atmosphere.

the boutique resort comprises three elegantly designed guest suites, complemented by a refined wine and cigar bar

Much of the woodwork is crafted from reclaimed wood sourced from local markets, with 80% of the pieces handcrafted by skilled artisans. This repurposed wood is meticulously shaped to harmonize with the scale and spirit of its surroundings, subtly enhancing the preservation and continuation of local craftsmanship. The estate’s design balances privacy with openness, providing a joyful and surprising spatial experience. With just one valley and three exclusive retreats, whether for a gathering with friends or a solo escape, the serene power of the pine forest and the architectural simplicity create a harmonious connection. The buildings quietly retreat into the landscape, offering a peaceful, secluded getaway.

to honor the site’s history, the new building echoes the old structure’s elements

Studio8 Architects thoughtfully positions each building along the valley’s contours

much of the woodwork is crafted from reclaimed wood sourced from local markets

the interior flows seamlessly with 270-degree panoramic views, offering a fully immersive experience

through the glass doors, each room opens onto a private backyard in the pine forest

the estate’s design balances privacy with openness

discreet lighting, resembling fireflies, dots the pathways and grounds, enhancing the secluded atmosphere

project info:

name: Anadu Pine Villa
architect: Studio8 Architects | @studio8.architects

location: China

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