panda-shaped cradle defines biodiverse performance hub by ZXD architects in china

structure by ZXD Architects adopts panda form in china

Designed by ZXD Architects, Ya’an Panda Performance Center in Ya’an, China, reimagines the relationship between architecture and nature with a form inspired by the giant panda. Located near the Ya’an Bifengxia Base of the China Giant Panda Protection and Research Center, the project creates a ‘cradle’ for the preservation and celebration of biodiversity. Its dual-volume structure accommodates performance spaces and auxiliary facilities.

The architectural form features two interconnected cradle-like shapes, evoking the image of a panda mother and cub. The larger volume, centrally positioned, houses the main performance hall, while the smaller volume accommodates dormitories, rehearsal spaces, and supporting functions. The volumes are unified by sloping green roofs planted with native vegetation, utilizing Ya’an’s abundant rainfall to minimize maintenance costs. Visitors enter the space through a sunken plaza, leading to an expansive lobby flanked by vertical green grids reminiscent of a bamboo forest, a symbolic nod to the pandas’ primary habitat and diet.

image courtesy of ZXD Architects

semi-transparent facade shields Ya’an Panda Performance Center

At the heart of the design by ZXD Architects is a 1,200-seat performance hall with an immersive stage that wraps around the audience. Before reaching the main hall, visitors pass through transitional spaces, including an auditorium for related exhibitions and performances. The facade of the building is composed of perforated aluminum panels designed to mimic the texture of panda fur. The panels feature a long-strip format with cantilevered edges, creating a feather-like effect that balances large-scale visual impact with intricate detailing. The double-layer staggered arrangement enhances the semi-transparency of the facade, while internal LED lighting adds dynamic effects at night.

The green roof of the Ya’an Panda Performance Center is accessible via a staircase from the second floor, offering viewing platforms. Visitors can stroll amidst native vegetation, connecting visually and experientially with the distant forested mountains. This elevated experience fosters a profound sense of immersion in nature, reinforcing the central mission of the project: to create a harmonious cradle for wildlife and human engagement.

Ya’an Panda Performance Center reimagines the relationship between architecture and nature

its dual-volume structure accommodates performance spaces and auxiliary facilities

the architectural form features two interconnected cradle-like shapes

evoking the image of a panda mother and cub

the smaller volume accommodates dormitories, rehearsal spaces, and supporting functions

the volumes are unified by sloping green roofs planted with native vegetation

at the heart of the design by ZXD Architects is a 1,200-seat performance hall

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site plan

ground floor plan

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project info:

name: Ya’an Panda Performance Center
architect: ZXD Architects | @zxdarchitects
location: Ya’an, Sichuan, China

area: 27,878 square meters

chief architect: Zhu Xiaodi

design team: Liang Liu, Tiangang Ma, Ruyi Xiao

client: Ya’an Culture and Tourism Group

performance operator: Usunhome Cultural Development Co., Ltd

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edited by: thomai tsimpou | designboom