MAD Architects Forms the Chinese Paper Umbrella Structure
Amy Duong — June 20, 2025 — Art & Design
References: i-mad
MAD Architects has designed the new Chinese Paper Umbrella structure -- it is found in the garden of the China Pavilion at this year's Venice Biennale. The installation takes a simple outdoor space and entirely transforms it into a space to experience and activate various senses and encourage a quiet reflection.
The umbrella is made from Xuan paper, which is a material revered in Chinese calligraphy and recognized for its absorption and soft feel. The paper has gone through layers of tung oil treatment -- this is meant to give it a water resistance and clear-like quality. This way, it makes it both practical and beautiful for the Venetian weather. It is much more than providing shade; it means creating an intimate and inviting space.
Image Credit: MAD Architects
The umbrella is made from Xuan paper, which is a material revered in Chinese calligraphy and recognized for its absorption and soft feel. The paper has gone through layers of tung oil treatment -- this is meant to give it a water resistance and clear-like quality. This way, it makes it both practical and beautiful for the Venetian weather. It is much more than providing shade; it means creating an intimate and inviting space.
Image Credit: MAD Architects
Trend Themes
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Sustainable Architectural Materials — Innovative use of Xuan paper treated with tung oil in architecture heralds the potential for sustainable, water-resistant building materials that enhance aesthetic appeal.
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Cultural Revival in Architecture — The adaptation of traditional Chinese materials for modern installations emphasizes a growing trend towards incorporating cultural heritage in contemporary architectural design.
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Sensory Architectural Experiences — Transforming outdoor spaces into sensory-driven environments suggests a trend focused on creating reflective and emotionally engaging experiences through architectural design.
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Eco-friendly Water-resistant Solutions — Using natural methods like tung oil treatment to make traditional materials like Xuan paper water-resistant points towards environmental innovation in construction.
Industry Implications
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Architecture and Design — The architecture industry is seeing a shift towards structures that respect and integrate cultural history while innovating for sustainability and functionality.
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Construction Materials Innovation — The construction materials sector can explore the development of traditional yet modernized materials like Xuan paper that promise environmental and practical benefits.
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Cultural and Heritage Tourism — Cultural installations at international venues like the Venice Biennale highlight the growing importance of cultural expression and preservation in the tourism industry.
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