MUDA-architects mimics lujiatan wetland rivers with new project

Lujiatan Wetland Park: A New Landmark in Chengdu

The Lujiatan Wetland Park Commercial Service Center, designed by MUDA-Architects, is a newly completed architectural project located in Chengdu‘s Wenjiang District. This undulating structure is set within the lush landscapes of Lujiatan Wetland Park, generating a space of nature, culture, and contemporary design. Wenjiang District, often referred to as the ‘City of Willows,’ is steeped in history as the cradle of the ancient Shu-Yufu dynasty. With its advantageous location and natural resources, it has long been a convergence point for cultural and natural riches. The Lujiatan Wetland Park, sited within this district, is surrounded by the Jinma and Minjiang Rivers and has become a popular destination for eco-tourism.

image © Arch-Exist | @archexist

MUDA-Architects’ River-Inspired Design

Planning its Lujiatan Wetland Park, MUDA-Architects looks to the Jinma River, a tributary of the Minjiang River, which plays a vital role in the region’s ecology and heritage. Inspired by the rhythmic flow of the rivers, the design team incorporated fluid, flowing forms into the project’s design. Thus, the architecture respects the site’s ecological and cultural significance while embracing a modern aesthetic that reflects the landscape of Wenjiang. The design avoids direct symbolism or replication of traditional forms, instead abstracting natural motifs to create a contemporary architectural expression. This balance of lightness and ecological sensitivity ensures the structure integrates fluidly with the wetland environment, establishing a new landmark for Chengdu.

image © Dong Image | @rudy_dong96

the Walkable Rooftop and spiraling Observation Tower

As MUDA-Architects draws from the archetype of the Chinese garden pavilion, Lujiatan Wetland Park reinterprets the relationship between roof and column using modern techniques. The fluid curves of the structure evoke riverside textures, while a lightweight roof clad in white metallic panels and transparent glass facades creates the impression of a building ‘floating on water.’ The project departs from conventional layouts and employs a modular approach, reorganizing spatial elements into interconnected zones that encourage exploration. Streamlined pathways enhance accessibility, connecting visitors with the surrounding landscape and fostering active engagement with the site.

A walkable rooftop merges with the ground-level wooden platform, connecting the building to the wetland park. On one side, the platform extends towards the water as a cantilevered hydrophilic deck, offering a close connection with nature. On the other, it links to the Jinma River greenway, creating a harmonious transition between architecture and landscape. At the center of the complex, a double-helix observation tower becomes a focal point. Visitors ascend the tower via a gently spiraling staircase, experiencing diverse perspectives of the wetland landscape. The tower’s summit offers 360-degree panoramic views of the wetlands and distant Longmen Mountain, creating a memorable immersive experience.

image © Dong Image

image © Arch-Exist

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image © Arch-Exist

project info:

project title: Lujiatan Wetland Park

architecture: MUDA-Architects | @mudaarchitects

location: Chengdu, China

completion: 2024

lead architects: Lu Yun
design team: Li Aidong, He Fan, Li Hao, Rong Dian, Fu Yao
building construction design: Chendu Yuzhan Architectural Design Co.
building construction drawing design team: Yu Fan, Jia Zihang, Zhang Yuanyuan
structural design consultant: Yuki. Law
client: Chengdu Long Ke Development Group

kat barandy I designboom

dec 10, 2024