volcano-shaped cabins dot inner mongolia's steppe at PLAT ASIA's hotel of arrivals

"Completed in December 2025, the resort hotel disperses a cluster of small, volcanic-shaped guest suites across the fragile grassland terrain, framing panoramic views of the surrounding steppe, lakes, and sandy plains."

"Each cabin is clad in reddish metal panels and topped with a cone-like aluminum roof that reflects the stark light of the steppe. Slightly elevated above the ground, the units appear to hover over the terrain while minimizing construction impact."

"The Beijing-based architectural platform positions the cabins directly above these existing sand pits, stabilizing the terrain while allowing ecological recovery. Curved retaining walls act as wind buffers and snow screens, helping retain moisture and improve conditions for plant life in the harsh steppe climate."

PLAT ASIA has completed the Volcano-In Hotel within the Baiyinkulun Steppe & Volcano Tourism Resort in Inner Mongolia, China. The project features compact circular dwellings inspired by volcanic cone geometry, clad in reddish metal panels with cone-shaped aluminum roofs. Positioned on a dormant volcanic landscape's southern slope, the suites are slightly elevated to minimize ground impact. Stone-paved paths made from local volcanic rock connect the dispersed units. Architect Bian Baoyang's design incorporates geological research spanning 150,000 years of terrain erosion. The cabins are strategically placed above existing sand pits to stabilize terrain and enable ecological recovery. Curved retaining walls function as wind buffers and snow screens, improving conditions for vegetation growth in the harsh steppe climate.

Read at designboom | architecture & design magazine