This was a small project for a resort in an hot springs area of central Taiwan. The site sits at the foot of a large hill rising steeply about 1000 meters behind and to the South. It is large and flat, and the client aims to accomodate a wide variety of uses other than simply a hotel and spa. A consultant was brought in to identify feasible options, and two final schemes represent the physical expression of the consultants recommendations. The first involves a large 5-star luxury hotel, a smaller and more spartan youth hostel, and a separate senior living facility. This first scheme also devotes a large amount of open space to an area used for outdoor activities such as camping, barbecuing, games, etc. The second scheme has two hotels, one fronting a golf course which is a members only facility, and one which is more economical, adjacent to the spa and museum facilities. The facilities common to both schemes include a large hot springs health spa, a natural history museum, and some shopping, including small stalls to rent to local merchants selling aboriginal arts and crafts and other locally produced souvenirs and agricultural products.

Both schemes aim to capitalize on the river location directly adjacent, but separate from the site due to a large dike meant to prevent flooding. A small control gate maintains the security of the dike but also allows a specific amount of water to fill an artificial “creek” in the center of the site. This element becomes the focus of a central garden, with pools, lounging areas, and plazas, which then becomes the centerpiece of the development as a whole. First/second floor amenities in the hotels, such as restaurants and cafes, over look this space which is dramatically lit up at night. Hiking trails lead up the mountain directly behind the site to scenic outlooks. The ocean is about 2 kilometers away and is easily viewed from an elevated position.

The spa is designed as a series of pavilions and courts, Japanese style, and accommodates a wide range of activities including fitness center, beauty salons, aromatherapy, etc. The large and spread out layout allows for a range of facilities of varying temperatures and degrees of privacy. The location at the rear of the site eliminates any noise from traffic and hotel activity, and the dramatic rise of the hills contributes to its secluded character.