pei zhu: urban oasis at shenzhen hong kong biennale 09

‘urban oasis’ pavilion by studio pei zhu
image courtesy studio pei zhu

beijing based studio pei zhu in collaboration with ARUP designed and built the ‘urban oasis’
pavilion for the shenzhen hong kong bi city biennale of architecture and urbanism.

the modern city has become an urban desert composed of isolated and disconnected pockets
of individuals. their approach to the project was to concentrate on simple local materials
and natural forms. bamboo is woven tightly together in a huge spiral shell. the form changes
dramatically according to where ones is standing in the square. as the shell curves upwards
the pavilion becomes an amphitheater for impromptu events and gatherings, at its narrowest
a place for intimate discussion. scattered throughout the pavilion are natural stone benches
providing further opportunities for engaging the structure, communicating with people,
and experiencing nature.

image courtesy studio pei zhu

image courtesy studio pei zhu

the pavillion at night
image courtesy studio pei zhu

construction of ‘urban oasis’