Architecture | Twisted Courtyard – ArchStudio’s Trippy Undulating Brick Paving

BEIJING — This unique twisting, wavy paving is simultaneously trippy and gorgeous. The design by Beijing-based architecture firm ArchStudio features an undulating grey brick floor that continuously flows through indoor and outdoor spaces leading into walls and roofs. ArchStudio aptly named the project ‘Twisting Courtyard.’

Archstudio‘s design aims at getting rid of the solemn and stereotyped impression given by a siheyuan by creating an open and active living atmosphere.

Situated in Beijing’s Dashilanr district, south of Tiananmen Square, the property is a traditional Siheyuan – a historic typology with buildings arranged around a central courtyard. Many such structures have been demolished to make way for more contemporary buildings, but ArchStudio was tasked with upgrading the existing structure, Dezeen writes.

A traditional gated entrance leads to a passage that connects with the central courtyard, which provides a public space viewed as a continuation of the city.

The various private and public rooms are arranged around the courtyard, which extends into the building at either end to form the internal floors of a dining space and reception area.

On either side of the courtyard, built-in furniture units are integrated into the existing timber-framed structure. They contain tables that can be raised up from the floor, and at night, they can transform into bedrooms.

Do you love or loathe this work of brick architecture from the worlds of contemporary ceramics and contemporary ceramic art? Let us know in the comments.