Bamboo Huts, a collaboration between the South China University of Technology and the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia’s Valldaura Labs won  the 2019 UIA-CBC (the International Union of Architects and China Building Center) International Colleges and Universities Competitive Construction Workshop this August. The competition came to an end with a closing ceremony at Siyang county in East China’s Jiangsu Province. The top winners of the competition were also announced at the ceremony.

At the start of August 2019, 15 teams made up of students from China and collaborating universities and colleges made their way to Aiyuan, a village known for its century-old pear orchard, in Siyang county, to implement designs with the objective of improving the quality of life of residents there. The Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia in collaboration with the South China University of Technology were announced one of three winners of the competition.

The IAAC Valldaura Labs and CBC winning proposal, Bamboo Huts, was constructed using concrete plates and incorporating bamboo structures to create the image of an old tree in the village, reminiscent of former traditions of local gatherings and socializing in the past. 

The space is designed to host social events such as gatherings and dances, or serve as a playground for children. It can also be used for exhibitions and trading. Moreover, the team chose the materials and construction techniques that were easily accessible to villagers. After some basic training, the villagers joined the team and took part in the construction of the huts as well!