a trio of firms including 3XN has been selected to design the new ‘shenzhen natural history museum’. the result was announced following an international competition that attracted more than 70 proposals from around the world. 15 teams were selected for the bidding stage, representing 18 countries across north america, asia, and europe. once complete, the project will be one of shenzhen’s ‘ten cultural facilities of the new era’ and the first large-scale comprehensive natural museum in southern china.

3XN, B+H, and zhubo selected to complete new shenzhen natural history museum
all images courtesy of 3XN

 

 

titled ‘delta’, the winning scheme by 3XN, B+H, and zhubo design, rises seamlessly from the river, inviting visitors to journey along its accessible green rooftop. a public park extends throughout the roof and highlights the museum’s organic geometries. like a river stream finding its shape in balance with the earth, every turn frames a new view over the surrounding park, hills, and lake from dedicated viewing terraces along the roof park.

3XN, B+H, and zhubo selected to complete new shenzhen natural history museum

 

 

the design extends the public park network and aims to maximize access to the lush green areas throughout with a range of activities dedicated to keeping the site open and active throughout the day — from early morning jogs to late evening strolls. this gives the opportunity for residents and visitors alike to enjoy and connect with nature. the undulating form leads guests to a ‘cave’ inspired passage that is connected to the museum lobby and activated by multiple cafes and public areas.

3XN, B+H, and zhubo selected to complete new shenzhen natural history museum

 

 

located adjacent to the picturesque yanzi lake in the pingshan district of shenzhen, the new 42,000 square meter facility will be a world-class natural science museum dedicated to interpreting the laws of natural evolution. see other projects in shenzhen on designboom here, including a performing arts center conceived as a ‘drama box’.

3XN, B+H, and zhubo selected to complete new shenzhen natural history museum

 

 

project info:

 

name: shenzhen natural history museum
location: yanzi lake, pingshan dist., shenzhen, china
team: 3XN, B+H architects, and zhubo design
client: engineering design management center of shenzhen municipal construction and public works administration
planned construction area: about 42,000 sqm
GFA: tentatively 100,000 sqm
total investment: about 3.5 billion yuan (excluding costs for the tender)