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The unique regional climate inspired the establishment of the Red Village Observatory. Yishala Village, located within the Daliang Mountain area, is home to various ethnic groups. The Daliang and Hengduan Mountains shield this region from oceanic monsoon moisture, resulting in a distinct dry-hot valley climate. With consistently clear air, minimal dust and moisture, and a low population density distant from urban light pollution, the site provides ideal conditions for astronomical observation. Leveraging these environmental advantages, the project introduced a new economic sector to the declining villages by constructing the observatory and established a robust scientific and educational infrastructure for local left-behind children of ethnic groups.
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Soil in this area has a distinctive red hue due to high iron content, and local residents have used earth in constructing houses, shaping the village’s unique red landscape. However, earthquake in 2008 caused damage to many residences. In the aftermath, reconstruction efforts predominantly relied on concrete structures with red paint in an attempt to replicate the original buildings, which, however, significantly undermined the village’s aesthetic integrity. Consequently, economical and easy-to-manufacture red concrete was utilized as the primary material in the construction of the Observatory. This strategy not only helped preserve the village’s red aesthetic but also provided a model for future reconstruction efforts, contributing to the gradual restoration of its historical character.
First to mitigate the effects of solar radiation, the total window area on the observatory's surface has been reduced. The roofs of each unit protruded outward, creating horizontal shading. Additionally, a raised roof insulation layer was installed to reduce the impact of solar radiation and energy consumption. Second to regulate diurnal temperature variation, thick pebble walls functioning as thermal mass were utilized, absorbing heat during the day and releasing it at night. Third to harness wind resources, the observatory was divided into multiple independent units, allowing for natural ventilation. Furthermore, the observatory’s electricity was sourced entirely from nearby wind power generation, complemented by energy storage devices to optimize usage.
Socially Responsible Architecture:The construction of the Red Village Observatory represents an innovative experiment in revitalizing historic villages and balancing preservation and development through the activation of new industries in the impoverished regions of western China.This initiative would generate employment opportunities in economically disadvantaged regions, ensure equitable educational access for left-behind children from ethnic groups and offer public space for traditional folk activities within the village.
Integrated Utilization of Infrastructure:The establishment of the Red Village Observatory serves as a comprehensive model for the integrated utilization of scientific and educational infrastructure within the mountainous village, effectively alleviating local financial constraints and revitalizing the village’s struggling economy.
New Type of Observatory:The project has optimized the traditional observatory model, which typically emphasizes observational equipment, by architectural space, materials, and light to effectively interpret natural astronomical phenomena.
Contemporary Translation of Local Settlements: The strong sunlight filtering through the gaps between the eaves illuminates this mountainous village’s winding pathways, representing a fundamental spatial characteristic of the local settlement. The Red Village Observatory has reinterpreted the spatial beauty of traditional villages through a contemporary design lens.
Although the equipments at the observatory may not be as advanced as that of some other large professional observatories, its unique architectural design and harmonious integration with the historic village have enabled the Sichuan Astronomical Society, the organization managing the observatory, to gain national recognition and respect within the professional community.Visitors are often captivated not only by astronomical observations but also by the unique design details.
TAG ARCHITECTS GROUP was established by Yanze Wang, Guanzhong Wu and Radek Toman in 2017. TAG believes in the architectural core value of BUILDING A HOUSE DOWN TO EARTH, and stick to RUNNING THROUGH THE WORKFLOW from architecture to interiors, from conception to construction.
Facing the PAST, TAG cherishes cultural diversity. Going deep into traditional settlements,TAG explores the spatial expression of local culture and construction wisdom with different local characteristics.
Facing the PRESENT, TAG insists on being in line with the law of social development. With the help of practices in cities,TAG explores the role of architecture in the development and regeneration of contemporary cities.
Facing the FUTURE, TAG has been researching cutting-edge theories and techniques of environment, space, technology and materials in order to get design inspiration from design research.
