HENGQIN CULTURE AND ART COMPLEX EMBRACES URBAN INDOOR AND OUTDOOR SPACES
07 Jun 2023
Approaching completion, the Hengqin Culture and Art Complex in China is set to be a wonder of urban indoor and outdoor spaces for the community to indulge in.
Designed by Atelier Apeiron, the 142,560 square-metre, nine-block development takes on a new and innovative building approach. Wedged between existing residential towers and an open city parkland, the culture and art complex features three urban living rooms for separate activities and an urban oasis roof garden with a tiered blueprint to maximise space.
Built in a typhoon prone area, the complex was built using wind resistant materials such as the suspended glass curtain wall. As well, due to its need for extra safety and durability qualities, a basement was built to provide extra support for anchor points. 
The complex façade features three large archways that lead visitors into three separate halls, Knowledge Hall, Performance Hall and Exhibition Hall. The archways are made from sustainable wood and bamboo panels and include a large skylight to provide natural light into the dark indoor spaces.
The three indoor spaces offer communal activities for visitors to take part in. Each hall was built for different purposes to provide visitors with an indoor space for a variety of indoor leisure activities. Knowledge Hall is a reading space featuring vertical walls of crystal book blocks, Performance Hall is a cultural performing arts centre and Exhibition Hall is a communal space for exhibits of arts and science. The complex also features a library, concert hall, art gallery, an activity’s centre for visitors and much more. 
Images via designboom
A true highlight of the complex is the rooftop garden by Yunchao Xu and Atelier Apeiron. The four-platform rooftop features an abundance of plant life and is a great rooftop oasis to take in the surrounding views. The rooftop levels all offer specific areas for specific activities to take place. From the living green balcony area for rest and relaxation to the semicircular stage and auditorium for outdoor performances, the rooftop garden is a compelling and inviting outdoor space for visitors to enjoy.
The rooftop garden also includes a shared garden with a cafeteria, children’s playspace, museums, cafes, bamboo garden and much more.
The Hengqin Culture and Art Complex is set for completion in 2024.
