perkins + will unveils plans for suzhou science & technology museum in china

global architecture firm perkins + will has been selected to design a science and technology museum in suzhou, a major city located about 62 miles (100 km) northwest of shanghai. forming the centerpiece of a new cultural district, the design of the 600,000-square-foot (55,742 sqm) institution comprises a distinctive looping form and is surrounded by terraced landscapes. the museum includes an industrial exhibition hall, where displays will highlight the role of industrial development in enriching lives.

all images courtesy of perkins + will

‘we are thrilled to have the opportunity to design the new suzhou science & technology museum,’ said ralph johnson, global design director of perkins + will. ‘our design recognizes the importance of suzhou in china’s commercial history, and underscores its role at the forefront of china’s emergence as a technology leader and innovator. the museum also draws inspiration from the natural environment surrounding it.’

the project will form the centerpiece of a new cultural district

the building’s ribbon-like form emerges from the base of lion mountain, twisting upward and turning back on itself to cantilever out over the edge of shishan lake. the result is an infinity loop, a symbol of prosperity, while the architects say that the building’s metallic façades call to mind a flowing silk scarf, one of suzhou’s best known exports. meanwhile, connected by walkway to the museum, an archipelago of eco islands serve as both a filtration system for the lake and as an opportunity for environmental exploration and education.

the building cantilevers out over the edge of shishan lake

visitors can arrive at the museum from several different approaches. with the lower levels providing numerous access points, guests can enjoy all or a select number of exhibitions, with all levels within the museum having access to natural daylight. the science & technology museum is perkins + will’s most recent civic and cultural project in china following the shanghai natural history museum, which opened in 2015.

the building’s metallic façades call to mind a flowing silk scarf

all levels within the museum have access to natural daylight

with the lower levels providing numerous access points, guests can enjoy all or a select number of exhibitions

trees and other vegetation is planted at the heart of the scheme

the building’s ribbon-like form emerges from the base of lion mountain