Y TÝ
CLOUDS

Choản Thèn, a small village of the Hà Nhì people in Y Tý Commune, Bát Xát District, Lào Cai, is no longer unfamiliar to backpackers. At the end of the village road, two ancient đuyu trees rise high amidst a mystical sea of clouds that envelops the entire village, creating a mesmerizing landscape that hypnotizes passersby.

Both of us are very excited and proud to have been invited to design the eco-tourism resort project, organized by the Hà Nhì community themselves. The Hà Nhì people cherish and respect their culture, from the centuries-old rammed earth houses, moss-covered thatched roofs, to the abundant natural landscapes that God has favored them with.

We understand that balancing the preservation of the natural environment with the development of a comfortable tourism complex is a complex puzzle. How can we create a resort that harmonizes with nature, preserves the unique cultural traits of the Hà Nhì people, while still providing a unique tourism experience that doesn’t feel forced? 

Currently, the resort area for overnight guests and the public area for day visitors coming to check in, explore, and take photos are arranged in overlapping spaces, significantly affecting the experience of staying guests.

In the new master plan, we have designed a clear separation between the bungalow complex (divided into two segments: VIP and Standard) and the public area to ensure privacy

A natural stream runs between the two zones, serving as both a natural boundary and an enhancement to the landscape. The bungalows are constructed in rammed-earth, preserving their distinctive square proportions.

The VIP bungalows feature a bold modern twist, with large glass windows that maximize views of the "sea of clouds," offering a luxurious and unforgettable experience.

rammed
earth
ecolodge

When you step off the bus and set foot on the welcoming area of the complex, your eyes are immediately drawn to the main reception hall.

"Gate to the Sky"

is named so because it serves as the entrance, where one greets the sky and the clouds upon arrival. Here, you will be warmly welcomed at the reception desk, have the chance to visit a souvenir stand showcasing handicrafts and special products of the Hà Nhì people, or simply let your soul drift amidst the floating sea of clouds. The structure of the "Gate to the Sky" is kept as it is, with only the walls between the columns removed to create an open space effect, facing directly out into the sea of clouds.

reception

Ancestor
House

The traditional rammed-earth house, an enduring presence on this land, is cherished and preserved in its entirety. Within its walls, we create a space to showcase artisanal crafts and spiritual artifacts, inviting visitors to uncover the cultural essence and timeless beauty of the Hà Nhì people. 

Community
House

The community house serves as a cultural exchange hub between visitors and the Hà Nhì people. Visitors can experience crafts such as embroidery, weaving, and basket making or participate in skill-sharing workshops organized by the community. It will also be a center for preserving and promoting traditional cultural values, counteracting the risk of the extinction of ancient crafts. 

Restaurant 

The restaurant is where visitors can enjoy the cuisine of the Northwest, especially the special dishes of the Hà Nhì people. When eating, the Hà Nhì can’t do without the traditional round table woven by hand from rattan. Despite using these traditional materials, the restaurant exudes a refined yet rustic beauty, with minimalist design lines and elegant indirect lighting. The central space is adorned with a large tree trunk, resembling a sculpture of nature, complemented by wild plum blossoms shimmering in the sunlight filtering through the windows.