Chapter and Verse Hotel

Wuzhen, China

Hotels + Hostels + Guest Houses

Architects: New Practice Studio

Location: 800 East Zhenan Road, Wuzhen, China
Year: 2021

Inspired by the local architectural context of residences built above waterways, the design of the hotel centers around an atrium with a series of floating bridges that connect guestrooms to the public space. To the north of the atrium, the staggered guestrooms open to outdoor terraces with optimized views of the river. To the south of the atrium, the façade facing the street is enveloped with wooden screens that open, filtering natural light while creating an ambiguous relationship between the exterior and interior.

From natural wood to handcrafted plaster, to custom terrazzo and artworks, the rich history of the local environment and the tranquil surroundings are woven into the hotel’s interior. A sculptural staircase connects the lobby to the atrium, where guests will find 30 rooms, ranging from compact single rooms filled with natural light, to double rooms with river views, to a loft with a private garden.