The 'Liyuan Library' building, designed by Li Xiaodong, proves that simple materials create complex structures. The project, located in the village of Huairou, is on the outskirts of Beijing's urban core. The structure, made from organic and local materials like wood and twigs, blends in with its surrounding landscape, at times seeming cleverly hidden within it. The building's interior space is multi-dimensional with varying levels of steps.
The level changes serve as an architectural focal point and add a dynamic element to the sustainable design. The brightly lit interior of the library is the result of light penetration that uses the twig-made frame of the building to enter the space. The interior, according to the designer, "frames the surrounding outdoor area while the landscape envelopes the building's shell." Though understated in it's use of eco-friendly materials, the 'Liyuan Library' is a hidden gem.
Landscape-Blended Architecture
The 'Liyuan Library' Fuses Nature and Man-Made Structure
Trend Themes
1. Landscape-blended Architecture - The 'Liyuan Library' demonstrates the trend of blending man-made structures with natural landscapes, creating visually appealing and sustainable designs.
2. Use of Organic and Local Materials - The 'Liyuan Library' highlights the trend of using organic and locally sourced materials in construction, promoting sustainability and reducing environmental impact.
3. Dynamic and Multi-dimensional Spaces - The 'Liyuan Library' showcases the trend of incorporating varying levels and steps in architectural design, creating visually striking and engaging spaces.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture and Construction - The 'Liyuan Library' presents disruptive innovation opportunities in the architecture and construction industry by showcasing new ways to blend man-made structures with natural landscapes and incorporating sustainable materials.
2. Sustainable Design - The 'Liyuan Library' highlights disruptive innovation opportunities in the sustainable design industry by demonstrating the use of organic and locally sourced materials, reducing environmental impact, and creating visually appealing structures.
3. Interior Design and Space Planning - The 'Liyuan Library' provides disruptive innovation opportunities in the interior design and space planning industry by showcasing dynamic and multi-dimensional spaces that engage and captivate users.