waterfrom design forms sweeping organic curves for art space in china

waterfrom design has completed an art space and reception center in jinan, china, for the company, china resources land. the concept is inspired by jinan itself, as it is known as the ‘spring city’ for it’s many springs since ancient times. taking this as a starting point, the project uses gently-flowing curves to represent the flow of water, creating an environment with no sharp angles. the resulting forms provides a sense of rhythm and intends to create an architecture that appears as a giant and enterable sculpture.

all images courtesy of waterfrom design

the design by waterfrom is based around one gradually-curling ramp, built within the 48ft (14.5m) high volume. stairs have been replaced with a gently sloping ascent, eliminating the need for sharp lines and corners. with this form, users are encouraged to meander and pause on the slightly tilting level surface and enjoy a peaceful feeling of going for a walk. the space that is created allows objects to be easily displayed, while also weaving the art into a unique spatial experience.

the forms of the spaces embody the image of a natural cave, polished by water for hundreds of years. the shapes also create an interesting dynamic with light, as it moves across the curved surfaces. in areas not lit by daylight, they are softly illuminated from the ceiling by hidden strips or spotlights. in essence, the design by waterfrom results in a reception area that is celebrated as an important architectural space, in which users can embrace the sweeping, organic forms.

project info:

project name: CR land jinan

project location: jinan, china

project type: art space / reception center

design: waterfrom design

area: 30139 ft2 (2800 m2)

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: lynne myers | designboom