Nestled in the mountain tea terraces of Pu'er, Yunnan, this project integrates with an existing cluster of glamping tents connected by elevated wooden walkways. The limited site conditions required careful coordination with the client to determine the optimal location.

To preserve the tea fields and landscape, the design employs a lightweight foundation system with minimal ground disturbance—supported by just six discreet footings with box-section columns. Inspired by local stilt architecture, the structure features prefabricated components (stairs, columns, and dome) for efficient, precise on-site assembly, reducing construction time and impact on the nearby operational hotel.

The observatory's dome, finished in matte beige fluorocarbon coating, harmonizes with the surrounding tents' materiality. Its cantilevered circular walkway complements the tent roofs' overhangs, creating a cohesive silhouette across the tea fields.

The compact circular plan maximizes usable space within the constrained site. Twelve radially arranged columns feature slender box sections that taper to spindle ends, maintaining structural integrity while preserving visual continuity. This unconventional combination of layout and structure creates innovative spatial experiences, establishing the observatory's distinctive architectural identity.

The hemispherical dome splits into six petal-like segments that open mechanically like awakening eyes - transforming the roof into an optical device that extends human vision. While the operable mechanism dome is derived from many others typical observatories, this spherical dome has its own unique temperament. The cantilevered circular walkway floats like Saturn's rings at the dome's equatorial plane, forming classical proportions reminiscent of the Tempietto. This design transcends mere functionalism, connecting historical references with futuristic vision through essentialist architectural expression.