pedestrian bridge extends across luhu lake in chengdu forming an open-air ring pavilion

HDEC AIR-CoLAB crafts Ring of Starlight open pavilion

Located on an island at the center of Luhu Lake in Chengdu, the Ring of Starlight by HDEC AIR-CoLAB serves as a performance and gathering space within Vortex Park, designed by Z+T Studio. Enclosed by commercial and residential developments, the park features a semi-isolated layout, with the island accessible only by footpaths or small boats. This positioning establishes the structure as a secluded element within the larger urban landscape. The design approach draws from traditional Chinese garden principles, emphasizing dynamic spatial experiences.

The 25-meter-diameter structure integrates into the surrounding natural setting, allowing visitors to encounter shifting perspectives as they navigate the site. Two distinct access routes—one by land and one by water—guide movement toward the central space, where the building gradually reveals itself through changing viewpoints. The structure consists of a pedestrian bridge extending across the water, widening at certain points to create a sheltered pavilion. The bridge transitions into a descending path, forming an open-air theater where the stage aligns with the lake surface. This layout allows for multiple interactions with the space, including direct access from arriving boats. The curved white concrete form interacts with light and water, producing varying visual effects throughout the day.

all images by Arch-Exist

Curved white concrete interacts with light and water

HDEC AIR-CoLAB design team opts for a material selection that prioritizes durability and integration with the landscape. Curved raw concrete subtly connects with natural elements, while the stepped seating and pathways encourage flexible use. The design accommodates performances, small gatherings, and informal activities, providing a versatile public space. A narrow, cantilevered walkway over the water introduces an additional spatial element, facilitating movement while framing views of the lake.

At night, the structure’s form interacts with its surroundings, reflecting ambient light and appearing as a crescent shape on the water. This visual integration reinforces the overall concept of blending architecture with its environment. Through its spatial composition and materiality, the Ring of Starlight functions as both a stage and an observation platform, offering varied engagement with the site while maintaining a strong relationship with the surrounding landscape.

the Ring of Starlight is a performance and gathering space on an island in Luhu Lake, Chengdu

positioned within Vortex Park, the structure integrates with its semi-isolated natural surroundings

a 25-meter-diameter structure, the Ring of Starlight gradually reveals itself through shifting viewpoints

inspired by traditional Chinese garden principles, the design emphasizes dynamic spatial experiences

a pedestrian bridge extends over the lake, widening at key points to form a sheltered pavilion

the bridge transitions into a descending path, shaping an open-air theater along the water’s edge

the stage aligns with the lake surface, allowing boats to dock and become part of the experience

stepped seating and open pathways allow for flexible use, from performances to quiet reflection

the structure adapts to various functions, accommodating public events and informal gatherings

at night, the Ring of Starlight reflects ambient light, appearing as a crescent on the water

the illuminated form echoes the distant glow of surrounding high-rise buildings

the structure acts as both a stage and an observation platform within the park

1/23

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

project info:

name: Ring of Starlight
architect: HDEC AIR-CoLAB

location: Luhu Lake, Chengdu, China

clients: Chengdu Wide Horizon Investment Group

landscape design: Z+T Studio

construction: Chengdu Dingxin Construction Engineering Co.

design team: Zaiguo Lin, Zhihao Li, Chuni Huang, Yurong Huang, Zhuoran Xu, Xinyi Zheng, Congyue Zhou

construction drawing design: Zhoyu Technology Group Co., Ltd

photographer: Arch-Exist | @archexist 

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom