Commune at the Opposite House Event Space

Building on Kengo Kuma’s iconic architecture, Kokaistudios’ recently reconfigured events area on LG Floor – Commune – for The Opposite House in Beijing combines elements of traditional Chinese architecture with inbuilt flexibility. Comprising a main space and connecting corridor, cleverly concealed sliding doors mean the lower ground level venue can be configured in multiple ways. A neutral backdrop for events of all kinds, a palpable garden motif nonetheless runs throughout the space, drawing connections with the hotel’s celebrated design legacy as well as the sunken courtyard garden in its immediate vicinity.

In Beijing, Kokaistudios’ overhaul of The Opposite House lower ground-level space has resulted in fully flexible multifunctional event space, Commune. In keeping with the property’s original design language of a traditional Chinese courtyard home, and taking inspiration from the adjoining sunken garden, the team extended these established motifs to create distinctive areas throughout. Adaptable thanks to folding doors and glass partition walls, the 756 sqm area, which includes a surrounding corridor, can be configured in multiple ways for events of all types and sizes, opening up new possibilities for this most prestigious of hotels.

For maximum adaptability, the main space can be divided into two distinct function rooms, linked by sliding doors to allow for various configurations. Largely neutral save for key features that combine design and functionality – a sculptural ceiling with hidden hanging systems, for example – it can be readily adjusted and aligned according to client specifications. Already connected to Neri&Hu’s existing Space – Studio and with multiple access points to the hotel’s courtyard, central lift lobby, and the adjacent shopping mall – TaiKoo Li Sanlitun, Kokaistudios’ renovation builds new layers into the space, and resonates with the property unmistakable design approach.

Maximizing natural light throughout the underground space was a particular priority. With this in mind, a glass partition separates the corridor area from the main space. Etched with a lattice design to echo the hotel’s striking facade, and semi-opaque for privacy, the material also creates a tantalizing evening-time glow. Glass also characterizes one of Kokaistudios’ most significant architectural interventions of the project: replacing the closed wall that stood before, a window looking down onto the hotel’s subterranean swimming pool now runs along the corridor’s outward-facing south side.

Further extending the design concept of a traditional Chinese garden, the bathrooms mark an abstract take on a grove of Bonsai trees. Spacious, and finished in warm brass tones, plant pot basins topped by mirrors lend a playful touch.

A fully flexible area to cater to a range of function types and renovated with neutrality in mind, Kokaistudios’ lower ground level event space brings new possibilities to The Opposite House hotel. At the same time, the Chinese garden-inspired concept nods to the property’s celebrated design legacy. A contemporary take on time-old traditions, Commune marks a sensitive, adaptable, and above all, practical upgrade to a modern icon of Beijing.

Design: Kokaistudios
Design Team: Chang Qing, Ada Sun, Suzy Zhang, Vivian Fang, Alex Jiang, Senny Wong
Photography: Dirk Weiblen