Architectural Cases

In a groundbreaking fusion of architecture and nature, PLAT ASIA has recently completed an innovative eco-resort, the Volcano-In Hotel of Arrivals, nestled within the vast expanse of Inner Mongolia's Baiyinkulun Steppe & Volcano Tourism Resort. This project, finalized in December 2025, extends the region's tourism development by introducing uniquely designed, volcano-shaped suites that not only offer breathtaking views but also actively contribute to the area's ecological restoration. The Beijing-based architectural firm's vision, led by architect Bian Baoyang, showcases a harmonious integration of hospitality with environmental consciousness, marking a significant step in sustainable tourism.

Volcano-Inspired Hotel Redefines Steppe Hospitality in Inner Mongolia

In the expansive and stunning landscapes of Inner Mongolia, specifically within the Baiyinkulun Steppe & Volcano Tourism Resort, a remarkable architectural feat, the Volcano-In Hotel of Arrivals, has been brought to life by PLAT ASIA. Completed in the serene winter month of December 2025, this low-impact hospitality retreat is strategically positioned on the southern face of a dormant volcanic terrain. The resort elegantly scatters a collection of compact, circularly shaped guest accommodations, each echoing the natural form of volcanic cones, across the delicate grassland. These distinct units, clad in a striking reddish metallic paneling and crowned with a cone-like aluminum roof, gently reflect the intense, clear light characteristic of the steppe. Elevated slightly above the earth, they create an illusion of floating, thereby minimizing their environmental footprint on the pristine landscape. Pathways crafted from locally sourced volcanic rock meander between the dispersed suites, reinforcing the architectural narrative of emergence from the geological fabric. The interior spaces of these suites are meticulously designed to frame the surrounding wilderness, with carefully proportioned openings that evoke the aesthetic of traditional Chinese scroll paintings. Each room is appointed with an oval skylight positioned above the sleeping area, perfect for celestial observation, complemented by elongated horizontal windows that capture the distant volcanic horizon. These framed vistas allow for a contemplative appreciation of the sky, grasslands, lakes, and sandy plains, unfolding like a series of layered landscapes. The project's conception, under the direction of architect Bian Baoyang, stemmed from extensive geological studies of the region's volcanic terrain, which has been shaped by approximately 150,000 years of natural erosion. The design team ingeniously located the cabins directly over existing sand pits created by wind-driven snow and shifting sands, effectively stabilizing the ground and facilitating ecological recovery. Curved retaining walls serve a dual purpose, acting as both windbreaks and snow screens, which aid in retaining crucial moisture and enhancing conditions for vegetation in this challenging steppe environment.

This innovative resort serves as a compelling example of how architectural design can not only coexist with but also contribute positively to its natural surroundings. It challenges conventional tourism development models by prioritizing ecological sensitivity and immersive visitor experiences. The thoughtful integration of local geology and climate into the design process offers a blueprint for future sustainable projects, demonstrating that luxury and environmental stewardship can indeed go hand in hand. The project underscores the potential for architecture to act as a catalyst for ecological recovery and a medium for fostering a deeper connection between humans and the natural world.

Galerie Philia, known for its distinctive approach to showcasing contemporary design, has brought its latest exhibition, 'Human After All,' to Seoul. This unique presentation features the innovative works of a new generation of Korean designers, set within the evocative walls of a former public bathhouse, an edifice rich with history and architectural character. The choice of venue aligns with the gallery's long-standing tradition of presenting modern design pieces within culturally significant buildings, a practice previously seen in exhibitions hosted in structures designed by renowned architects like Jean Nouvel and Le Corbusier.

The exhibition space in Seoul, a building that transitioned from a 1980s bathhouse to a church before becoming an art venue, plays an integral role in shaping the visitor's experience. The structure's towering central area, illuminated by a skylight, bathes the raw concrete surfaces in natural light, creating a reflective and serene atmosphere. Ygaël Attali, co-founder and art director, conceptualized the building as an active participant in the display, choreographing the installations to harmonize with the verticality of the architecture. This thoughtful arrangement allows each design object to interact with varying levels of light and proximity, enhancing its presence through its relationship with texture, dimension, and shadow.