Neri&Hu conceives the Qujiang Museum of Fine Arts Extension as a 'glowing lantern'
by Jincy IypeMar 24, 2023
•make your fridays matter with a well-read weekend
by STIRworldPublished on : Jun 26, 2019
When enlightened developer Aranya asked Neri&Hu to design an art centre inside their seaside resort community, architects Lyndon Neri and Rosasana Hu of the Chinese design studio seized the opportunity to question the notions of space for art versus communal space. Aranya as a community has a strong emphasis on the spiritual nature of their lifestyle ideology, a oneness with the environment. So, the design scheme is as much about the internal courtyard, a communal space for the residents, as it is about the exhibition being displayed in the centre.
Drawing inspiration from the seasonal ocean waters nearby - azure and calm in the summers, splintered ice through winter - the building design attempts to encapsulate the natural wonder of water at its core. The scheme maximises its outer footprint but carves out a pure conical geometry at the centre with a stepped amphitheatre at the base. The central void space can be reconfigured and used in many ways, like a water feature when filled with water, but also a functional performance and gathering place when the water is drained. The exhibition galleries above benefit from the public space integration, but it also makes the project much more than just a place for display - it is also a place for sharing.
Within the thick mass of the building volume is a series of interlocking spaces that visitors can meander freely in, slowly ascending, enjoying a choreographed journey with directed views both inward and outward. Gallery spaces are about the enjoyment of art. This project is no different in that regard; a spiralling path leads you through all the spaces, urging you onwards by the desire to see more. Starting at the bottom with a café, a multi-purpose gallery, and an outdoor amphitheatre, the path guides visitors through five distinct galleries, culminating at the rooftop where you get a 360-degree view of the activities below.
“It was exciting for us to work with Aranya on this project where we were able to explore a hybrid typology which combined design, art, and performance. The project pushes the boundaries of how architectural space deals with sensorial experiences in unexpected ways,” say Neri and Hu.
Composed primarily of various textured concretes, with and without aggregate, the façade and materiality of the building is heavy in nature, like a solid rock sitting firmly in the shifting environment. Smooth surfaces reflect the changing skies, while the moulded modular units pick up on the play of shadows throughout the day. Bronze elements act as accents on the heavy façade to catch light and draw attention to the entry of each gallery. Custom lighting and details add a touch of intricacy to the otherwise modest palette. In the evening, open modules allow light to shine through, the building is a jewel at the core of this seaside community.
(Text by Palak Maheshwari, intern at stirworld.com)
by Anmol Ahuja May 27, 2023
STIR tours the recently completed Fish Island Village by Haworth Tompkins and The Trampery campus in Hackney Wick, discovering its industrial history and present day urban aspirations.
by Devanshi Shah May 26, 2023
A powerful curatorial structure by Lesley Lokko needs to be carefully absorbed as an exhibition, a presentation and a display.
by STIRworld May 24, 2023
The proposal by Haptic Architects and Oslo Works, comprising workspaces for marine industry, hopes to capture the fjord’s underwater life while anticipating its future.
by Sunena V Maju May 20, 2023
The Golden Lion was awarded to the Brazil Pavilion and DAAR under the National and International Participation for their exhibitions Terra and Borgo Rizza respectively.
make your fridays matter
SUBSCRIBEDon't have an account?
Sign UpOr you can join with
Already signed up?
LoginOr you can join with
Please select your profession for an enhanced experience.
Tap on things that interests you.
Select the Conversation Category you would like to watch
Please enter your details and click submit.
Enter the code sent to
What do you think?