Caravensari 57

Reexamining Hospitality as a Bridge between Cultures

This project seeks to reexamine and reflect on the shared aspects of “hospitality” in both Muslim culture and traditional Chinese culture, exploring how these values can serve as a new bridge to foster harmony among different ethnic groups in this modern Eastern cities.

Historical and Cultural Context

The history of the Hui Muslim and other minority communities in Xi’an dates back over a thousand years, where diverse traditions of host-guest relationships have blended and evolved. However, the passage of time and changes in the economy, culture, and politics have introduced new challenges. Even in their ancestral homelands, some may still feel the pressures of being an “outsider,” highlighting an urgent social issue that demands attention and resolution.‘

Design Proposal at Xi’an Railway Station

Xi’an Railway Station, a key transportation hub connecting China’s western and eastern regions, is geographically linked with the ancient Xi’an city wall. This location bears significance beyond just a transit point—it stands as a potential bridge for dialogue between the Han Chinese and other ethnic groups. The design proposes the demolition of the northern section of the Xi’an city wall near the railway station, which was restored with newly built structure in the 1990s, and its replacement with a transparent, even lightweight new structure. This “phantom wall” would span the gap between the eastern and western remnants of the old city wall.

Functionally, the new structure would serve as a rest stop for ethnic minority merchants from across the country, paying homage to the ancient tradition of the caravanserai, particularly among the Hui merchants. Beyond providing lodging, the space would include public halls, open meeting areas, and coworking spaces, inviting people of all ethnicities, including the local Han, to gather, converse, exchange ideas, and foster deeper mutual respect.

The building’s facade design features a foldable system that echoes the winding paths of the ancient Silk Road. Atop the four-story structure is a floating highline that connects to the ancient city wall. This elevated green space and public area further enhance the city’s green footprint. The floating green wall, standing before the train station of this ancient city, celebrates a future where mutual respect among diverse ethnic groups is the foundation of a healthy, multi-ethnic nation.

This project was completed in the fall of 2022 as my thesis for my master’s degree at the University of Melbourne, where it was awarded second place among the year’s outstanding graduate designs. The project was supervised by Professor Anoma Pieris and Athanasios Tsakonas.