At the close of 2020, a design project for Xiaoxi B&B near the Great Wall at Shuiguan in Huairou, Beijing, aimed to create rural hotels that deliver a unique experience of "breaking away from daily life," transcending mere functionality and intertwining reality with imagination.

The site’s proximity to the Great Wall, a historical monument that embodies both beauty and danger, sparked curiosity. This formidable structure symbolizes the courage derived from confronting perilous terrains. The question arose: could subtle elements of "danger" be incorporated into the architectural approach to elicit unexpected experiences?

The Harrier Castle, an extension of the Great Wall from the Ming Dynasty, stands as a significant landmark, its stone walls and ancient locust tree witnessing centuries of history. As visitors approach down a narrow lane, the castle wall rises before them, inviting exploration while keeping the dwelling subtly hidden—an embodiment of the theme that danger often lurks beneath the surface.

At the courtyard gate, a small attic glows warmly in the evening light, reminiscent of a beacon that signifies presence and welcome. This imagery reflects cultural narratives of homecoming, where a light left on signifies the warmth of a loved one.

Upon entering, the courtyard comes alive as extended eaves create a spacious corridor, perfect for relaxation and connection with the environment. The lower furniture invites guests to recline, altering their perspective and deepening engagement with the surrounding beauty.

An affinity for the ancient locust tree guided its integration within the design, where modified eaves highlight its prominence while subtly concealing surrounding clutter. The exteriors of the buildings, clad in reflective metal plates, create an ethereal backdrop, drawing focus to the locust tree's verdant presence.

The staircase, critical to the building’s design, embodies both a challenge and an invitation. By blending traditional craftsmanship with innovative design, the steps encourage exploration, requiring careful navigation to foster a sense of attentiveness and awareness.

In this crafted setting, the deliberately introduced "danger" paradoxically fosters stability, creating a sanctuary that encourages contemplation and serenity. Surrounded by nature and steeped in history, the project epitomizes the intersection of personal experience and environmental context, reaffirming the connection to the past and the essence of place. Harrierfall emerges as a reflective space where danger and stability coexist, offering a unique architectural narrative that resonates deeply with its surroundings.