Marvel at the Sky Migratory Bird Observatory

By Jenchieh Hung & Kulthida Songkittipakdee | August 17, 2025

Project Overview

Nestled along the shores of Erhai Lake in Dali, Yunnan, the Sky Migratory Bird Observatory Residence is a testament to ecological sensitivity and architectural innovation. Designed by Atelier Design & Research, this 120-square-meter retreat merges sustainable materials, passive design strategies, and a deep respect for the region’s biodiversity. Its location a critical stopover for migratory birds—inspired a structure that dialogues with the landscape while minimizing human impact.

Design Philosophy: Where Ecology Meets Aesthetics

The architects, Jenchieh Hung and Kulthida Songkittipakdee, prioritized biophilic design, using locally sourced wood, glass, and minimalist interiors to reflect the tranquility of Erhai Lake. Key features include:

Natural Materials: Reclaimed timber for flooring and ceilings, reducing carbon footprint.
Light-Filtering Glass Walls: Maximizing daylight while offering unobstructed views of bird migration paths.
Modular Furniture: Custom-designed chairs and beds that echo the organic forms of the surroundings.
Passive Ventilation: Strategic window placement to harness lake breezes, eliminating the need for AC.

The Interior: A Sanctuary for Observation

The residence doubles as an observatory, with interiors designed to immerse occupants in nature:

Bedroom: A suspended wooden bed frame and floor-to-ceiling windows create a “floating” effect.
Living Space: Low-profile furniture and warm lighting enhance the connection to the outdoors.
Lighting Design: Indirect LED strips mimic the soft glow of dawn, critical for birdwatching at twilight.

Technical Specifications

Location: Dali, Yunnan, China
Area: 120 sqm
Completion Year: 2025
Architects: Atelier Design & Research (Jenchieh Hung & Kulthida Songkittipakdee)

Why This Project Matters

The Sky Migratory Bird Observatory Residence isn’t just a home—it’s a statement on cohabitation with nature. By integrating ecological research with architecture, the team sets a precedent for low-impact tourism in biodiverse regions.

✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight

The Sky Migratory Bird Observatory Residence elegantly bridges architecture and ecology, offering a serene retreat that honors its avian neighbors. Its use of passive design and local materials is commendable, though the project could further explore how its innovations might scale to larger, urban contexts where biodiversity is often sidelined. The lack of detailed energy metrics (e.g., solar integration) feels like a missed opportunity to solidify its sustainability claims. Nonetheless, the design’s poetic sensitivity particularly the light-filtering glass mimicking bird flight patterns is a masterclass in context-driven architecture. This project reminds us that the future of design lies not in dominating nature, but in listening to it.