A hillside house designed by Ming Ding Spatial Art Studio adds an earthy twist to village residence construction. Photography by Ouyang Yun.

It is not uncommon for China?s new generation of rural migrant workers to save up for a self-built house in their home village. Ironically, most of the houses become vacant after being constructed, just acting as a flashy symbol of wealth in neighborhood. However, this project is different, as it is meant for daily dwelling and living. The owner, who has a career in Guangzhou and Shenzhen, returned to her hometown in southern Jiangxi Province, yearning for the familiar flavor of food and life in her childhood.

The site is situated at the edge of the village, adjacent to a forest park. Backed by the mountain, endowed with greenery, its peace and quietness inspired the designer Jin Feng, and the silhouette of a reclusive white hillside house appeared in his mind.
Based on functionality, Jin Feng constructed the space with simple geometric blocks. Considering the living habits of the family members, dining room is set as the space center on the first floor. Combined with the large kitchen on the west side, it provides a perfect ?stage? for the owner?s love of cooking.

“Although the project is in the countryside, the living space is changing with our living habits. We can’t deny the fact that we are already part of modern society.” Jin Feng said.

He insisted on pra...