richard meier architects: shenzhen clubhouse

‘shenzhen clubhouse’ by richard meier architects, shenzhen, china all images courtesy richard meier architects

positioned upon an island within the OCT bay in shenzhen, china, the ‘shenzhen clubhouse’ designed by new york-based practice richard meier architects is nearing completion. upon traversing a pedestrian bridge across the water, guests pass through a promenade lined with and allée of trees towards an arrival court and central fountain. within view of the urban and cultural district across the water, the internal spaces are radially arranged within the sweeping external form offering views of the city. clad with signature white metal panels, daylight filters through the overlay of solid panes and voids producing an interplay of light and shadow through the skylights and vertical screens.

approach to the complex

the 11,000 square meter complex will provide a restaurant, multipurpose area and a small gallery along with private dining suites and recreational facilities. a lush landscape and pathway connect to the pool and fitness center at the southern end of the isle. the outdoor areas are planted with indigenous flowers and orchards while a reflecting pool cascades from the lobby. rooted within chinese philosophy, the meandering garden paths produce an intimate experience filled with delicate textures and captivating vistas. the understated massing of the secondary structure compliments the entry building by reducing the overall scale and instead opening the ceiling into a generous skylight above the 25 meter lap pool along with three glass perimeter walls with prospects of the landscape.

arrival court and central fountain

lobby

pool

pool

(left) atrium under construction (right) entry

(left) perimeter corridor (right) fins lining the facade

front elevation under construction

floor plan / level 0

floor plan / level 1

floor plan / level 2

elevation

elevation

the museo de arte contemporáneo de monterrey (MARCO) in monterrey, mexico is currently exhibiting the ‘richard meier retrospective’, which will be on display until january 8, 2012. the collection features a range of completed works including models, sketches renderings and photographs of his prominent projects including the smith house, getty center, neugebauer residence and jubilee church. completed works include the perry street towers, high museum of art, ara pacis museum and arp museum in germany. the unrealized proposal for the world trade center memorial and examples of his product design are featured alongside ongoing architectural projects.