Christoph Hesse Architects

The Centre for Earth Architecture in Zhangjiakou, China, will merge ancestral wisdom with modern innovation, using local materials to advance sustainability, biomimicry, and cultural heritage. This dynamic hub will foster learning, experimentation, and exhibitions, transforming the village into a global model of regenerative design, ecological resilience, and rural revival. Built from locally sourced materials, the centre ensures a naturally balanced indoor climate while serving as a carbon storage.
Rooted in traditional craftsmanship, it revives age-old building techniques, preserving skills passed down through generations.
By integrating these methods, the project strengthens the village's cultural heritage, re-establishing it as a vibrant centre of knowledge and exchange. Designed to welcome students, architects, and visitors, it fosters inter-cultural dialogue and promotes sustainable building practices-contributing to a global movement towards climate-conscious design.