By Syn Architects
An illuminated semicircular window above a pool of water simulates “a moon that never sets” on the roof of a ceremonial hall designed by Syn Architects, in the dramatic landscape surrounding Mount Tai in China.
Hometown Moon is part of a creative strategy commissioned by the Lushang Group in 2019 for a 55-square-kilometre area north of Tai’an City, intended to encourage visitors to explore the natural landscape and to better connect the local villages.
“Lushang Group demanded a holistic approach to connect the string of mountain villages in the area,” said Syn Architects.
“We returned to the birthplace of Confucianism, rebuilding the relationship between dualities such as city and the countryside.”
The hall, which will be used to host weddings, is located at the end of a “purifying road” through the mountains.
This route begins with a cloud-like viewing terrace called Jiunvfeng Study, previously completed by Gad Line+ Studio.
Hometown Moon is designed to sit in dialogue with this structure, influenced by a large, illuminated balloon that was lit during the area’s Mid-Autumn festival.
“The buildings complement each other as symbolic counterparts…after crossing a mountain, a river and exploring a few curved pathways, visitors finally arrive at the building,” said the practice.
