Greater Bay Area Museum
The Greater Bay Area Museum sits on the blooming shore of Zhongshan, Guangdong, as a symbol that bridges tradition and future development. Our team had carefully studied local culture and attempted to infuse some elements into the design.
One of the local’s favourite flowers, chrysanthemum, characterises not only prosperity but also a seclusive, proud lifestyle. As such, the main body of the museum is coupled with multiple layers of landscape and dense vegetation before its entrance; by creating a「lost」experience, visitors are encouraged to more thoroughly explore the surrounding and appreciate this oasis within the concrete jungle.
Site Plan: 1:1000
Multiple exhibition halls, multimedia rooms and recreational rooms have been devised, as we wish the museum to embody a myriad of historical relics as well as modern attractions. The vertical louvre facade utilises eco bamboo to be durable, light, and openable at variable angles to create interesting dynamics between inside and outside. We sincerely wish this museum to be a landmark of culture and growth, shaping a strong sense of local atmosphere for all visitors.
Duet 「对唱」
The main body of museum is split into two, with their form taking inspiration from local fishing boats. The central body of water creates an interesting dynamic - although it separates the two buildings, it also ties them up as a unity amongst the dense landscape.
The main atrium as a navigation hub - a place for passing by and stopping at. With sufficient overhead clearance and natural lighting, visitors can freely explore all functions of the museum as they like.
Enlightened 「豁然」
This roof garden is conceptualised as the middle ground between man-made and nature. Upon reaching the top floor, visitors are greeted by a massive arched opening overhead, as a calling to enter the garden - a place for embracing a small piece of nature, integrated into the building.
Swimming in the metaphorical ‘sea’ - the undulating landscape resembles waves of the ocean, guiding visitors to roam and enjoy the public space, which is especially atmospheric during night time.
Plans and sections
For the Greater Bay Area Museum to be truly integrated into the lives of people in Zhongshan, we opted for humbleness over grandeur, subtlety over flamboyance. By integrating traditional local elements into spatial designs, we wish to recall the significance of water and chrysanthemums as symbols of auspice and life, to create a place for people to express and feel love for the city, from the city.