MARCIA DESIGN ASSOCIATES INTERNATIONAL INC: Winner of World Design Awards 2024. Haikou, an important city in southern China, is renowned not only for its tropical charm and coastline but also for its unique volcanic landscape. The volcanic crater, as a signature element of Haikou’s natural scenery, serves as the inspiration for this project’s design.

When planning the exhibition center, the designers decided to incorporate this natural element into the architectural design to emphasize the close relationship between the building and the local environment. This approach not only respects Haikou’s natural and cultural context but also injects a unique visual symbol into the project, making it a new landmark in the city.

Design Inspiration: The Power of the Volcano

The volcanic crater, a magnificent masterpiece of nature, embodies endless strength and vitality. In Haikou, these volcanic remnants are not only geological wonders but also essential components of history and culture. The design team drew inspiration from this natural landscape, incorporating the forms and imagery of the volcanic crater into the architectural design to create a complex that is both symbolically rich and visually striking.

Architectural Form: Dynamic Expression of the Volcanic Crater

The overall design features streamlined curves that evoke the results of tectonic movements, resembling the natural shape of a volcanic crater. The exhibition center’s volume gradually rises, symbolizing the power and impact of a volcanic eruption. The central section is designed as a circular glass structure, resembling the crater’s vent, with light streaming down from the skylight above, illuminating the space and creating a profound sense of natural awe.

Materials and Texture: The Earth’s Tapestry

To faithfully reproduce the texture of the volcanic crater, the building’s roof features natural landscapes and rough concrete as primary materials. These choices not only visually convey the raw power of the volcano but also enhance the building’s durability and eco-friendliness. The use of glass curtain walls adds a modern and airy feel, symbolizing the fresh, transparent air following a volcanic eruption.

The interior space of the building continues this theme, with the lobby featuring decorations and furniture made from abundant natural materials like wood and stone, creating an intimate connection with nature.

Functional Layout: Balancing Dynamics and Stillness

As the core area for project display and client reception, the building design emphasizes streamlined movement and openness. Upon entering, visitors are guided to the central atrium, then through a circular exhibition area to explore various aspects of the project. Inspired by the crater’s layers, the exhibition spaces vary in height and perspective, providing a gradual exploration experience. The conference rooms and public lounge are centrally located, symbolizing the crater’s core, serving as hubs for idea exchange and creative interaction.

Sustainability: A Dialogue with Nature

In terms of ecological sustainability, the design team carefully considered the local climate and environmental features. The themed glass building incorporates double-layer curtain walls and shading devices to minimize direct heat transfer, while low-emissivity coating technology on the glass effectively reduces energy consumption. The rooftop garden and vertical greenery not only enhance the building’s aesthetics but also improve the microclimate through the process of transpiration.

The building’s internal water resource utilization system exemplifies the principles of sustainable development. The rainwater collection and greywater recycling systems enable the reuse of natural resources, reducing reliance on municipal water supply and lowering the operational costs of the building.

Conclusion

The design of the exhibition center in Haikou, inspired by the volcanic crater, beautifully merges natural topography with modern architectural forms, resulting in a landmark that embodies local character. This design not only highlights Haikou’s natural and cultural background but also achieves a balance between functionality and aesthetics. Through this innovative approach, the project successfully facilitates a dialogue between architecture and nature, adding a unique visual element to the city.

This design philosophy illustrates how to integrate natural elements into modern architecture, creating works that possess cultural significance and visual appeal.

Project Details:-
Firm
MARCIA DESIGN ASSOCIATES INTERNATIONAL INC

Architect
MDA

Project Name
SHANDONG INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS CLUSTER AREA PROJECT

Project Category
Public Building Built

Team
Gary Zhou/Adina-Iuliana Deacu

Project Location
HAIKOU, HAINAN

Country
China

Photography ©Credit
Yuanzhi Ou

Marcia design associates international inc., based in canada, specializes in urban, architectural, and interior. The firm has over 100 designers worldwide, delivering tailored, practical, sustainable, and diverse solutions for clients in various countries and regions. Since entering the chinese market in the early 21st century, it has completed numerous influential projects, including the chengdu panda town masterplan, the nanjing baijia lake 1912 commercial street reconstruction & upgrading project etc. We view the design intent and execution of each project as a unique solution tailored to each client and their specific needs, ensuring our international reputation and professional authority in these fields.

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