STILL YOUNG Designs Arc'teryx Alpine Experience Center with Textile Facade at Songhua Lake Ski Resort

The design firm STILL YOUNG has created the Arc'teryx Alpine Touring Experience Space at the Songhua Lake Ski Resort in the Changbai Mountains. This structure serves as a high-altitude basecamp rather than a conventional retail store, featuring an exterior wrapped in a textile material described as a 'portable mountain skin' that resembles expedition tents and echoes the surrounding alpine ridges. The building glows at night, providing visibility for skiers using the extensive trail network. Inside, the interior design draws inspiration from Banff National Park's natural features, incorporating earth-toned patterns and raw timber to create a sensory connection to the environment. The layout is divided into functional zones: the ReBIRD Service Center focuses on gear maintenance, repair, and sustainability initiatives, while the Pine Flame Core café area offers a space for relaxation and social interaction. This central installation, shaped like a pinecone, emits warm lighting to simulate a campfire atmosphere. The design uses durable materials like metal, glass, and wood to withstand heavy use while maintaining comfort. The center promotes environmental responsibility through gear rental and customization services, aiming to reduce waste and encourage long-term use of equipment. It functions as a communal hub where visitors can prepare for or recover from skiing, blending technical performance with a welcoming ambiance. The project is compared to other seasonal alpine structures, such as the Pink Carousel in St. Moritz, for its temporary yet impactful design that harmonizes with its snowy setting.