Rooted in the stunning landscape of Sun Moon Lake, the architecture embraces nature as its foundation and adopts a design that embraces simplicity, eschews excessive materials, and avoids unnecessary complexity. The result is a refined yet understated high-end retreat where elegance and comfort coexist in perfect harmony. As the original structure had fallen into disrepair, the design team opted for a complete teardown and rebuilt the site into a boutique hotel that reflects the unique character of its surroundings. A key design intervention involved rotating the building’s orientation by 90 degrees which significantly enhanced natural light penetration and optimized spatial flow. From a technical perspective, an expansion joint system was meticulously integrated between the two structures which ensured structural integrity and long-term durability. The design seamlessly incorporated the artisanal process of ceramic craftsmanship exemplified by the sculptural arched windows that gracefully taper from a broad base to a slender peak. This delicate hand-molding technique mirrors the precision of architectural construction while paying homage to the spiritual traditions of the region’s indigenous culture. At the rooftop level, spatial circulation culminated in a common area for socializing. Here, expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, a thoughtfully calibrated wall height of 190 cm, and a precisely angled roof converge to create a striking sense of vertical openness—an architectural gesture that invites the sky inward and extends the visual horizon. The structure is built with reinforced concrete, while the material palette is carefully curated to evoke depth and texture. Japanese reduction firing tiles and mosaic tiles create a rich, weathered patina, adding layers of character to the façade. Solid Japanese bricks are strategically placed on the exterior bathroom walls to allow natural light and ventilation to filter through while maintaining privacy. The roof is composed of steel-framed aluminum panels reinforcing the building’s structural integrity. At the entrance, the staircase sidewall is crafted from weathering steel and coated with a refined finish to form a signature logo wall which is precisely positioned to subtly obscure the views of passerbys as the owner descends the stairs, ensuring visual continuity and a harmonious spatial experience. This layered architectural envelope not only enhances the building’s depth but also establishes a tactile connection to the earth, reinforcing the impression of a structure organically emerging from the landscape. Select sections of the building’s exterior walls are finished with a non-toxic, formaldehyde-free mineral coating chosen for its excellent moisture-absorbing and humidity-regulating properties. This coating both enhances the natural texture of the façade and also contributes to a healthier indoor environment.