SHORT DESCRIPTION

This project is located near Canruo Lake in Zhongliang Town, Chongqing, part of the Canruo Lake rural research base, just 18 kilometers from downtown. Its purpose is to create a public space for rural experiential education for primary and secondary students in the city. The project site is an abandoned cattle pen that has been unused for many years in the village. In front of the building, there is a large field with a height difference of nearly 3 meters, offering an open view. Each year in March and April, the rapeseed flowers bloom, creating a mesmerizing golden sea. This project aims to transform the existing abandoned cattle pen into a station for free reading and communication for students from the city, left-behind children, and local villagers. The design adheres to the philosophy of “respecting the original appearance and reconstructing in context”， aiming to enhance the interaction between the new structure and the existing site. It extends indoor and outdoor spaces into the fields, creating a harmonious coexistence with the natural environment. Utilizing rustic red bricks and diverse masonry techniques, the design features a dual-slope roof of steel and wood with transparent resin tiles, creating a rest stop that balances modern facilities and natural charm. The red brick facade of the Cattle Pen Book House reflects the original walls, integrating red brick elements throughout the building. The outdoor reading area extends the use of red brick, featuring walls, gravel pathways, and an observation area overlooking the fields, allowing children to engage closely with nature. Inside, the Cattle Pen Book House includes a coffee bar, book lending shelf, landscaped atrium, and public restrooms. The atrium enhances natural light and ventilation, creating a comfortable indoor environment.