biomimetic canopies sculpt blooming hibiscus for chengdu international horticultural expo

t. y. lin designs for Chengdu International Horticultural Expo

T. Y. Lin International Engineering Consulting (China) Co., Ltd. takes over the design of the Comprehensive Service Center for 2024 Chengdu International Horticultural Expo. The International Horticultural Exposition, often called the ‘Olympics of Horticulture,’ is a global event showcasing plant diversity while promoting international exchanges in culture, science, technology, and economics. Chengdu was selected to host the 2024 World Horticultural Exposition for its strong commitment to sustainability and its vision of a ‘Park City, Beautiful Habitat.’ Chengdu’s dedication to creating green, livable environments and fostering innovation makes it an ideal venue for this global dialogue on sustainability.

The Comprehensive Service Center serves as the main gateway to the Expo Park, reflecting the Expo’s values and Chengdu’s rich culture. Beyond its role during the Expo, the center will function as an urban landmark and a versatile hub for community activities, driving economic growth and enhancing public services. Inspired by Chengdu’s symbolic flower, the Hibiscus—also the Expo’s themed flower—and the historic ‘Han Que’ gates, the design integrates the ‘Blooming Hibiscus’ form with nature, creating a stunning and iconic entrance. During the Expo, the center will house visitor services, ticketing, dining, exhibitions, and operations. Afterward, it will transform into a vibrant community hub, enriching lives with cultural, business, and recreational facilities.

all images by ©Hino Photography unless stated otherwise

green Functional Design defines Chengdu Expo’s Service Center

Spanning 5,473 sqm, the center comprises three mega canopies and two buildings—Building A offers commercial and cultural services, including retail shops, cafés, and restaurants, while Building B handles administrative functions, housing a ticketing hall, visitor services, an emergency center, offices, meeting rooms, and a multipurpose hall. The canopies, ranging in height from 14 to 16 meters and in diameter from 40 to 55 meters, posed significant design challenges. These were overcome with smart structural and parametric solutions, utilizing steel frames and lightweight tensile membranes to create shaded, open spaces. Advanced parametric modeling optimized the hyperbolic asymmetrical forms, ensuring material efficiency, precision, and reduced construction time.

Aligned with the Expo’s green goals, the design by T. Y. Lin International Engineering Consulting (China) Co., Ltd. integrates energy-efficient and eco-friendly features. Rainwater Harvesting system collects and stores water for irrigation and agricultural use. A smart glazed roof and inner atrium enhance daylighting and airflow, reducing energy consumption. The digital design with construction achieved significant milestones, including a 22.5% reduction in construction costs and a 40% decrease in construction time. Additionally, the project closely matches the original conceptual design by 95%.

inspired by Chengdu’s symbolic Hibiscus flower and historic ‘Han Que’ gates, the design blends culture and nature

After the Expo, the park will become a dynamic community-centered destination, blending culinary, cultural, and entertainment attractions with quality hotels and resorts. The Comprehensive Service Center will evolve into a community hub, integrating with local commercial activities and offering diverse services, including cafés, bookstores, cultural exhibitions, and health workshops. As a vibrant space for gatherings, sports, and cultural events, the center will foster connections and build meaningful relationships among residents.

The Comprehensive Service Center transcends its role as a gateway or architectural centerpiece. It embodies the art of ‘Creating a Place’ that celebrates culture, honors nature, enriches lives, and aspires to a sustainable future. This visionary project will remain a vital part of Chengdu’s urban landscape, driving cultural, economic, and social growth.

spanning 5,473 sqm, the center features three mega canopies and two multifunctional buildings

advanced parametric modeling optimized material use and construction efficiency for the iconic design

aerial view | image courtesy of ©Chengdu Horticultural Expo Operation and Development Co., Ltd.

video by ©Hino Photography

the Comprehensive Service Center celebrates culture, honors nature, and aspires to a sustainable future

green features include a smart glazed roof, and natural ventilation for energy efficiency | image by ©Rashwan Khalil

the smart roof provides adjustable natural lightening and ventilation | image by ©Rashwan Khalil

smart structural solutions create shaded open spaces using steel frames | image by ©Rashwan Khalil

project info:

name: The Comprehensive Service Center of 2024 Chengdu International Horticultural Expo
architect: T. Y. Lin International Engineering Consulting (China) Co., Ltd.

location: Eastern New District, Chengdu City, Sichuan Province, China

lead designer: Bill Cong Huang, Rashwan Khalil, PU Weiran

design team: CHEN Qiquang, DU Meng, XIA Yu, ZHANG Zhen, LU Shengzhong, Meimei Isobel Williamson, NIE Chuanran

construction company: China Construction Eighth Engineering Division. Corp. LTD

client: Chengdu Horticulture Expo Operation Development Co., Ltd.

photography: Hino Photography, Rashwan Khalil

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom