inspired by cathedrals, the harbin creative design center in china invites peace & rhythmicity

Harbin Creative Design Center by WuxingYouxing Space Design

The Harbin Creative Design Center in China takes on a new branded identity following extensive renovations by Wei Zhixue from WuxingYouxing Space Design. The studio breaks through the office building’s old industrial structure with classical arched forms, lightweight modern materials, and a subtle monochrome palette. Together, these layers subtly align with the industrial design ethos, continuing the Bauhaus tradition of seeking restraint, tranquility, and functionality. The most notable feature of the project unfolds across its ceilings and walls, where arrays of curvatures represent an abstraction of the letter D (from ‘Design’) and the Harbin’s Russian-influenced architecture.

all images © Xu Yiwen

a sanctuary-like interior inspired by east orthodox cathedrals

As Harbin is a Russian-inspired city famous for its Eastern Orthodox Saint Sophia Cathedral, WuxingYouxing Space Design also injects religious influences in the main foyer, where a sanctuary-like dome with 60 hollow columns of varying heights takes shape. The structural support is subtly hidden in the dome, in the confluence of the curved surface and the vertical dimension, forming a harmonious and rhythmic aesthetic. Through the longitudinal extension of the form, a niche space is formed on both sides of the dome. Natural light pours above the grand dome, casting enchanting shadows on the ascending steps. This design fosters a spiritual ambiance, with changing sunlight and starry nights continuously shaping the sacred atmosphere — suggesting an endless longing and appreciation. The fluctuating field heights inspire the exploration of spatial possibilities, and the geometric forms communicate a compelling sense of beauty.

As a hub for the design industry, this project also includes a shared office space featuring adaptable conference rooms to meet the diverse needs of resident agencies. The terraces blend the site’s variability with seating functionality, employing light-colored terrazzo and turquoise to create an inviting and sensory-rich environment. Furthermore, Wei Zhixue creatively transformed a two-layered lecture hall into four layers, accommodating the functional needs while creating a dynamic spatial experience. The shift in spatial height differences offers a rhythmic sensation reminiscent of a flowing stream through the Xing’an mountains. This space pays homage to classic design with a modern twist, boasting a visually striking column matrix of 60 Ds that evoke the undulating surface of waves. Lastly, the first floor serves as an exhibition area, embracing simplicity in its concrete and spatial aesthetics.

main foyer area

D-shaped motifs coupled with a subtle palette

The coffee area adjoining the exhibition space offers a distinctive visual encounter within the rich coffee-scented ambiance, incorporating geometric shapes in the form of a ‘D’ motif, which can be seen in the window design —  stretching the perception of space vertically, playing with height and natural light. Upon entering, one is greeted by a remarkable column at the doorway, which draws inspiration from the 15 creative design agencies housed within the center. This column features ‘D’ shapes that have been stacked and rotated, complementing the transparent glass brick wall near the entrance, producing mesmerizing light patterns that resemble a dreamy spatial tunnel, evoking the essence of Harbin’s ice and snow heritage.

Delving deeper into the project palette and ambiance, a harmonious blend of gray, white, and green tones weaves into the space, with a touch of graphite to awaken a sense of quiet elegance. Circular windows allow a subtle interplay of light and shadow. The essence of this design project revolves around the juxtaposition of contrasting ideas, much like the interplay of lightning and fire. According to the designer, it recognizes the need for inspiration as our lives become increasingly noisy. With that said, the renovated interiors promote unbridled creativity with open areas across all four levels to facilitate interaction while incorporating the brand’s signature green color. It breaks away from conventional divisions, using warm and elegant turquoise to craft an ideal space that can accommodate and nurture innovative thinking. 

D-shaped motifs across the ceiling

cathedral-inspired design inviting peace and sacredness

Harbin Creative Design Center includes shared office spaces

a palette dominated by monochrome colors

rhythmic aesthetics coupled with natural daylight

meeting room on the upper level

dramatic curvatures coupled with the terraced foyer

communal eating space

dome-like patterns throughout the Harbin Creative Design Center in China

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project info:

name: Harbin Creative Design Center
location: Harbin, China 
architecture studio: WuxingYouxing Space Design

lead  planner: Feng Changhong
lead designer: Wei Zhixue
design team: Sun zheng, Wu Guibi, Yu Yuanhui, Qian Zhendie, Zhang Huada
VI design: Shenzhen Haoyun Branding Management Co., Ltd.
lighting designer: Donghao Lighting
display design: Changsha Yejian Electronic Technology Co., Ltd.
display construction: Heilongjiang Nongyu Display Co., Ltd.
exhibition construction: Heilongjiang NYU Exhibition Co., Ltd.
furniture: AVARTE
photographer: Xu Yiwen
content planning: Oneplus Brand management consultation
project area: 6000 sqm 
completion date: August 2023