A retained willow tree marks the entrance to this new 1500m2 private house on the outskirts of Beijing. Family spaces are organised at the west end of the house with guest accommodation and entertainment situated at the eastern end. A double height entrance hall and glazed winter garden act as orientation spaces between the two, with a first floor bridge connection. The extensively glazed open-plan ground floor, opening onto a sequence of intimate perimeter pocket gardens, paved terraces and pools, is set 600mm below ground level to maintain privacy.

The external form of the house references the Prairie style houses of Frank Lloyd Wright, with deep over-sailing eaves to prevent over-heating in summer. The house, which is designed to meet European standards of energy performance, is currently under construction.