construction begins at mecanoo's cultural complex in shenzhen, china

mecanoo has broken ground on its first project in china, a vast cultural complex containing a public art gallery, a science museum, a youth center, and a book mall spread over five expansive storeys. the 95,000 square meter development will transform shenzhen’s longcheng park, providing both visitors and citizens with an identifiable focal point.

all images courtesy of mecanoo

the four primary volumes emerge from the ground creating a series of arches and sheltered public spaces beneath the scheme’s dynamic red envelope. cultural programming is positioned at ground floor level to ensure a direct connection with exterior public space, generating a vibrant downtown destination. mecanoo won the international competition to design the cultural center in 2011, with a completion date now slated for 2017.

cultural programming is positioned at ground floor level to ensure a direct connection with exterior public space

cultural complex shenzhen, china
video courtesy of mecanoo

the complex contains a public art gallery, a science museum and a book mall spread over five storeys

the project is set to be completed by 2017