Nestled between two impressive karst mountains in Yangshuo County, Vector Architects' Alila Yangshuo appears as if a mirage. The disused sugar mill has been transformed into an impressive resort hotel, which invites its guests to learn about the traditional local culture and community. Seamlessly blending old and new, the architect's additions to the original building include a combination of local stone and bamboo, a play between the hard exterior of the traditional sugar mill and the warm and inviting space that it's become through its recent development.
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Sao Lourenco do Barrocal, Alentejo, Portugal
Sao Lourenco do Barrocal has a rich history, with traces of human populations dating back to the Neolithic period. It developed into a thriving farming community in the 1900s, with its most recent transformation being a testament to architect Eduardo Souto de Moura's talent. The village, set in the heart of the 780-hectare Sao Lourenco do Barrocal estate, was given new life after being passed down through generations of a single family for the last 200 years. Making a point to retain the heritage of this site, Souto de Moura repurposed the farm buildings, schoolroom and bullring among other landmarks to create a serene escape comprising private rooms, suites and cottages alongside a restaurant, winery, stables and spa.
Vander Urbani Resort, Ljubljana, Slovenia
Located in the heart of the city, at first glance the exterior of the Vander Urbani Resort blends into Ljubljana's traditional architecture. Under the surface, however, architecture firm Sadar+Vuga has created a hidden oasis. Inspired by the city's appreciation of its heritage, as well a palpable curiosity for the new, Vander Urbani Resort is a hotel like no other. The modern interior design carries you down to the cosy underground rooms, while a rooftop swimming pool gives you a bird's eye view of the surrounding cityscape.
Amanyangyun, Shanghai, China
Opened in January this year, Amanyangyun is an incredibly ambitious architectural feat. Following the construction of a reservoir in the Jiangxi province, which threatened to destroy the area's historical Ming and Qing dynasty villages, Chinese businessman Ma Dadong began an expansive relocation project. Spanning a decade, the restoration effort included moving 50 historical buildings and a forest of 10,000 ancient Camphor trees to Shanghai and reassembling the buildings, brick by brick. The result is a beautiful resort that breathes new life into these ancient buildings, bringing together a collection of high-end suites, private pavilions and wellness amenities in a tranquil woodland setting in close proximity to Shanghai.
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