Situated within the iconic Golden Business Center in Shenzhen, China, the Future City Exhibition Center is a testament to architectural innovation and cultural preservation. Designed by Various Associates and led by architects Qianyi Lin and Dongzi Yang, this exhibition space seamlessly integrates modern design elements with the rich heritage of its surroundings.
Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future
The Golden Business Center, a significant landmark in Shenzhen, embodies the architectural style of its era with its distinctive golden facade. To blend the new exhibition center seamlessly with the existing structure, Various Associates opted for a design approach that pays homage to the original building while infusing it with contemporary flair. Hollowed-out patterns inspired by the city’s fabric adorn the golden facade, establishing a visual connection between the past and the present.
Engineering Marvel: The Cantilevered Facade
The design team faced numerous technical challenges in creating the cantilevered facade, including structural integrity and material deformation. Employing innovative casting techniques using acrylic and hollowed-out metal, they achieved a nearly 30-meter-long facade without the use of metal screws. Natural light filters through the patterns, creating captivating light effects that evolve throughout the day, offering visitors a dynamic and immersive experience as they journey through the exhibition center.
A Journey Through Time and Space
The Future City Exhibition Center is designed as a narrative journey through the city’s past and future. Visitors are guided through various timelines, from historical narratives to futuristic visions. Each space is meticulously crafted to evoke distinct emotions, from the sleek and minimalist design of the past exhibition to the dynamic backdrop of the future exhibition. As visitors transition between timelines, they are enveloped in an ethereal sense of space and time, culminating in a return to reality.
Tranquil Oasis: The Urban Courtyard
At the heart of the exhibition center lies a vibrant courtyard, offering visitors a tranquil retreat amidst the urban hustle and bustle. Inspired by the city’s fabrics, the courtyard serves as an “urban living room,” inviting guests to relax and reconnect with nature. This serene space reflects the designers’ vision of harmonizing architecture with the natural environment, creating a seamless blend of past, present, and future within a confined interior space.
Conclusion: A Fusion of Heritage and Innovation
The Future City Exhibition Center in Shenzhen is more than just a showcase of architectural prowess; it is a celebration of cultural heritage and forward-thinking design. Through meticulous attention to detail and innovative engineering, Various Associates has created a space that pays homage to the past while embracing the future. As visitors traverse through its immersive narratives and tranquil courtyards, they are invited to contemplate the intricate relationship between time, space, and human experience.
