florian marquet proposes a huge basin-shaped visitor center for shenzhen

a thin mesh canopy hovers over this visitor center concept by florian marquet for a site in shenzhen, china. designed by the shanghai-based architect to be ‘borderless’ and with no front or rear elevation, the proposed public building aims to tie together architecture and nature.

a borderless public building that ties together architecture and nature

images courtesy of florian marquet

for this conceptual project, florian marquet has shown a green site positioned between hills and the open sea. inspired by the openness of the sea, the goal was to create a building that is inviting from all angles and has no real start or end. the proposal, therefore, connects the building with the surrounding landscape through a porous design.

the canopy is not only a symbolic tie between the building and its surroundings, it also protects the public from hot, sunny days in shenzhen

the more public-focused functions are located underground and are designed to be easily accessible and visually connected. the program for the whole complex includes a sunken public library, open-air atriums, offices, a tourist information center, exhibtion spaces, and a sky terrace cafè on the fourth floor.

outdoor public gathering spaces are layered underneath the canopy

open-air atriums on both sides of the building bring the public closer to the surrounding environment

the building and sunken library offer a layered porosity of functions and visual connection

the more public-focused programs are located underground

the public library is sunken under ground level to minimize the footprint of the building

an extension of the existing park over the sunken library connects the building with the surrounding environment

the proposal intends to be an inviting symbol for visitors to shenzhen

a delicate canopy hovers over the site to unify the building with the landscape

the design prioritizes sustainability without disrupting the functions of the building

project info:

project name: shenzhen visitor center

status: concept

architect: florian marquet

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