- Interior
Located on the breathtaking Weizhou Island in Guangxi, China, Puinn Hotel presents a harmonious interplay of nature and architecture. Often hailed as “China’s most beautiful island,” Weizhou Island offers visitors a picturesque landscape of turquoise waters, volcanic coastlines and a mild climate. Formed by volcanic eruptions, the island is one of the youngest volcanic islands in China and a destination where travelers seeking inner peace can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.
When designing Puinn Hotel, Funs Creative Design Consultant, led by design director Luo Bin, embraced the concept of an oasis, a secluded place of calm and healing. Set to open in January 2024, the hotel exudes a sense of connection to its natural surroundings while reflecting a modern aesthetic. The design team, consisting of Feng Hao, Zhang Hongming and Zhou Zengni, created a space that both provides a sanctuary for the senses and pays homage to the island’s volcanic heritage. Puinn Hotel’s exterior is clad in red natural marble, a powerful reference to the flowing lava that once formed Weizhou’s volcanic shores. A subtle nod to the island’s fiery origins, this bold colour scheme contrasts beautifully with the lush green surroundings. The marble symbolises the power of nature, while the incisions and natural patterns in the stone tell the story of erosion and the passing of time. These details connect every guest to the island’s ancient history from their very first step. In the lobby, visitors are welcomed by an imposing reception desk made of red natural stone. The play of light that flows through the atrium into the public space creates a vibrant and ever-changing spectacle of light and shadow. Inspired by the philosophy of architect Tadao Ando, this play of light symbolizes the transformation of spaces through light and emphasizes the vitality of the natural world. The pool at Puinn Hotel offers an almost mystical experience. Inspired by stories of hidden underground hot springs, the design of the pools seems to reflect a natural karst cave, with vaulted ceilings and flowing shapes that suggest underground rivers. As guests walk through the pool area, surrounded by tropical greenery, they are transported to a sanctuary of peace and relaxation, where the gentle whisper of water invites them to experience a deeper connection with nature.
The natural beauty of the garden reflects the spiritual tranquility of the island and provides a place for contemplation and introspection
Each guestroom at Puinn Hotel offers a unique perspective on luxury and comfort, designed to appeal to different senses and take each visitor on a journey of imagination and tranquility. The Wabi-sabi rooms exude simplicity and serenity, with minimalist furnishings evoking a sense of calm. For lovers of timeless elegance, the mid-century style rooms exude a refined retro charm with high-quality leather furnishings and subtle wall decorations. For guests who prefer a sleek, modern look, the black and white rooms offer a play of contrasts, with geometric lines and subdued colours creating a sense of calm and order. In each room, art and nature meet, inviting guests to leave the reality of everyday life behind for a moment and immerse themselves in a temporary dream. The gardens of Puinn Hotel are a true oasis of tranquility, where the hustle and bustle of everyday life fades away and the voice of nature softly resounds. Designed as a transitional space between the architecture and the surrounding landscape, the garden offers a sanctuary where guests can reflect and unwind. Sandy paths and irregularly shaped stepping stones invite you to take a leisurely stroll, while lush plantings provide a sense of security and privacy. The natural beauty of the garden reflects the spiritual tranquility of the island and offers a place for contemplation and introspection. Puinn Hotel is not just a place to stay, it is a place where stories of the past and nature come together. Here, on China’s youngest volcanic island, the hotel offers its guests a unique opportunity to experience the power of nature and the calming rhythm of time. Whether admiring the beautiful architecture, relaxing in the serene garden, or dreaming in one of the luxurious rooms, Puinn Hotel invites you to write a new chapter in the story of tranquility, freedom and connection. This is a destination where nature serves as a brush and time as ink, and together they create poems of peace and harmony." Photography by Liu Wei, Leng Feng