Designed by a21studio, Located inside an operating hot spring and mineral resort, the Tent is a small spa perched in the folds of halfway terrace up to a rock hill, facing to the river. This seems to be a good place for hiding away from the eventful area on the other side of the hill to enjoy healthy activities such as mud bathing and massage services. However, one of the biggest constraints of the site is that it gets intense heat from the West throughout the year, which makes it fallow for years.

Firstly, a steep roof with thick thatch is considered to be a good solution to prevent the sunlight as well as a good blend with the surrounding landscape. By placing the slope side to the West, a huge amount of heat is trapped outside the building. Furthermore, the fact that the roof props on the ground also gives a distinctive look to the Tent since the roof is no longer used as a cover from either rain or sun as a normal way but also becomes the main structure of the building. In detail, the main 100×250 mm beams help the structure spanning 11m and elevating 2.3m in the half to allow guest enjoy a good view of the river and city center. Above this wooden structure is a combination of 3 layers, 20 mm thick wood panels, which gives an aesthetic look to the ceiling and links all beams together, waterproof membrane and 30 mm coconut leaves, respectively. All of these parts are connected by using indigenous building technique, mortise, and tenon joints.
Together with the con...