MAD architects: xiamen museum, china

‘xiamen museum’, china by MAD architects all images courtesy MAD architects

chinese MAD architects have proposed a floating museum, lofted up above the ground in china. the museum, located in the southern chinese city of xiamen is situated an island in the middle of a resevoir that runs through the centre of the city.   the design is comprised of three levels. at ground level, landscaped public space leads visitors around, the site to various recreational spaces: amphitheatres, open sports fields and places to meet. the middle level makes up the museum itself, where the main functions such as exhibition spaces, cafes, restaurants and offices, hover high above the ground. five tall supports rise out of the landscape like stalks, providing the vertical access to the museum.

on the roof level, a landscape is created, referencing the natural surroundings of the museum: a unique topography of lakes, greens and wetlands, all publicly accessible, floating in the air. the roof is also home to solar panels, taking advantage of the city’s warm climate.

the museum’s position, high above the centre of the lake, provides uninterrupted views of the city beyond. at the same time, the building’s mirrored exterior reflects the city, ensuring it is highly visible from all angles around the water.

night view

situated on an island

floor plan elevation

project info: location xiamen, china typology city museum building area 13,340 sqm status proposal