Open Architecture Designs the Shanfeng Academy
Amy Duong — June 1, 2023 — Art & Design
Chinese design studio Open Architecture designs the Shanfeng Academy, which is a new culture and sports center in Suzhou. It is designed with inspiration drawn from classic Chinese gardens, which can predominantly be seen along the exterior. The center functions as a gallery, library, cafe, and theater with sports and dance facilities as well. It serves 2,000 students as well as other locals.
It is split into a series of five blocks that are segregated by gardens that are themed around the four seasons. Open Architecture speaks about the new design, stating that "By breaking down and pulling apart, voids are created in the form of four gardens. Between the gardens and the solid voids are the semi-outdoor walkways, where the colonnades and their moving shadows define another kind of void."
Image Credit: Zhu Runzi
It is split into a series of five blocks that are segregated by gardens that are themed around the four seasons. Open Architecture speaks about the new design, stating that "By breaking down and pulling apart, voids are created in the form of four gardens. Between the gardens and the solid voids are the semi-outdoor walkways, where the colonnades and their moving shadows define another kind of void."
Image Credit: Zhu Runzi
Trend Themes
1. Open-air Inspired Cultural Centers - Designing culture centers inspired by open-air elements like gardens offer an opportunity for new and unique spaces.
2. Multifunctional Centers - Creating cultural centers that can serve multiple functions, such as galleries and sports facilities, provide opportunities for more comprehensive community engagement.
3. Seasonal Themed Gardens - Incorporating themed gardens that represent the four seasons provides an opportunity for cultural centers to create immersive and transformative spaces.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - Innovative architects can seize the opportunity to incorporate open-air design elements in cultural centers to create unique and transformative spaces.
2. Cultural Centers - Those involved in planning and creating cultural centers can consider incorporating multifunctional spaces that cater to a larger audience to create a more engaging and immersive experience.
3. Gardening/landscaping - Horticultural experts can tap into the opportunity to create themed gardens that transform spaces and provide cultural and visual stimulation.
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