the LOOP by LWK + PARTNERS features a glass-bottomed 'skywalk' in chongqing, china

commanding an impressive location on top of zhaomu mountain in chongqing, china, LWK + PARTNERS has designed a showroom for their client longfor properties. created as a ‘sales gallery’ to showcase the luxurious villas and houses up for sale, the project has been conceived as a ‘brilliant gem hovering on top of the magnificent landscape.’

all images courtesy of LWK + PARTNERS

the program of the building comprises of two showrooms that are linked by a glass-bottomed bridge, otherwise known as the ‘skywalk’. developed by the architect to maximize views of the valley below, the bridge cantilevers out from the main structure to provide visitors with a dramatic experience and panoramic views of the surrounding mountain landscape. 

constructed from a steel frame, the structure of the LOOP is defined by circular volumes that intend to integrate into the contours of the site. the undulating forms are clad in a kind of layered cladding system, which was imagined by the architect as ‘layers of onion rings’, giving a texture to the external architecture. high-quality stone slabs are used to clad the building, stacked horizontally in this stepped fashion, they help to create the ‘loops’ of the project.

the entrance to the showroom features tranquil pools of water and a winding path that gently invites visitors inside. the entrance also includes an element of drama as one of the volumes cantilevers to create a huge overhang, providing a sheltered area. large windows also puncture the stone façades, breaking up the heavy mass and illuminating the building at night, making it appear as a gem on the mountainside. 

project info:

project name: ‘the LOOP’

location: chongqing, china

architect: LWK + PARTNERS

client: chongqing longfor properties co ltd.

site area: 17,276 ft2 (1,605 m2)

gross floor area: 16,145.87 ft2 (1,500 m2)