Modern Mongolian Ger Installation, In the global architectural discourse, the expression of grassland culture faces homogenization challenges. The Mongolian ger, as a quintessential spatial carrier of nomadic civilization, embodies unique spatial philosophy through its circular plan, prefabricated structure, and symbiotic wisdom with nature. Situated near the Ulanhad volcanic cluster in Inner Mongolia, this project establishes a dialogue between the monumental geological landscape and the flexible nomadic space. The volcano symbolizes Earth’s primordial forces, while the ger represents humanity’s adaptive response to nature – their collision creates distinctive spatial narratives.
© Yujun Dou
This prototype-based exploration creatively translates traditional nomadic culture into contemporary architectural language. Through site analysis, cultural translation strategies, and spatial experience design, it demonstrates organic integration of these elements, offering new perspectives for grassland human settlements.
© Yujun Dou
1. Site Response: Volcanic-ger Topographic Dialogue. The geometric morphology of Ulanhad volcanic cones shares topological similarities with ger sectional curves. Through geometric abstraction and recombination of volcanic and ger forms, the installation becomes a microcosmic reflection of the geological landscape while reinventing traditional ger spatial expression. This approach establishes poetic scalar and formal correspondences, achieving topological transformation from natural landforms to architectural language.
© Yujun Dou
2. Cultural Translation: Contemporary Interpretation of Nomadic Wisdom. The design deeply excavates the ger’s ecological adaptability features, analyzing its passive climate regulation systems for harsh environments, and translates these into spatial elements. Strategically placed upper and lower apertures guide micro-airflows to maintain spatial comfort, preserving nomadic cultural DNA while meeting contemporary needs.
© Yujun Dou
3. Experience Design: Dynamic Spatial Narratives. Employing geometric spatial configurations with alternating colored and dark acrylic panels, the installation creates evolving chromatic projections that respond to changing daylight and cloud movements. This transforms the static space into a “breathing” organic entity with temporal dimensionality.
© Yujun Dou
Nomadic Futures. This spatial translation of the ger not only provides site-specific architectural solutions but also explores a “nomadic” design philosophy – creating adaptive spaces in dynamic environments. This elastic spatial wisdom from nomadic civilization may offer significant inspiration for future architecture.
Project Info
Architects: Ger Atelier
Country: China, Chifeng
Year: 2024
Photographs: Yujun Dou
Construction Unit: Hainan Baixintu Investment Co., Ltd.
Sophie Tremblay is a Montreal-based architectural editor and designer with a focus on sustainable urban development. A McGill University architecture graduate, she began her career in adaptive reuse, blending modern design with historical structures. As a Project Editor at Arch2O, she curates stories that connect traditional practice with forward-thinking design. Her writing highlights architecture's role in community engagement and social impact. Sophie has contributed to Canadian Architect and continues to collaborate with local studios on community-driven projects throughout Quebec, maintaining a hands-on approach that informs both her design sensibility and editorial perspective.