Location: Nanjing, China.

Architect: Studio Link-Arc.

The Nanjing Art Center is a new public space located in Nanjing’s Central Business District. The design concept is based on a series of linear elements that twist in section to combine “wall” and “floor” into a single sinuous gesture. Multiple folded walls encase the building’s program and generate an intense spatial richness that creates a series of interlinked public spaces that promote exploration and interaction. The exterior skin of the building is clad with parametrically designed stainless steel panels, while the interior surfaces are defined by a palette of wood and metal that extends the material strategy of the exterior form. The metallic form of the project promotes a sense of technology and optimism in line with the aspirations of the surrounding urban neighborhoods. The building is designed to be a “living room” for the city and will project an iconic presence that will become a landmark for the region. The experience of wandering between these spaces shares a spiritual connection with the experience of lingering in traditional eastern gardens. By applying a limited number of sinuous geometries and a clearly defined circulation strategy, the building can be understood as a contemplative sequence of connected spaces.

Photo credit: Qingshan Wu.