MAD Architects has unveiled plans for the Nanhai Arts Center, a captivating mixed-use development situated in Foshan, Guangdong province, China. The design of this project, named after its lakeside location, is inspired by the form of a large rippling wave. Covering an expansive 121,275 sq m (around 1.3 million sq ft), the center will be home to a grand theater featuring a 1,500-seat amphitheater, a versatile multi-purpose hall, and a sports center.
One of the distinctive features of the Nanhai Arts Center is its undulating roofline, which will peak at a height of 57 m. Constructed using translucent white ETFE plastic membrane, the roofline aims to create a cohesive aesthetic for the various structures within the development. This material, previously utilized in MAD’s Yabuli Entrepreneurs’ Congress Center, allows for semi-outdoor spaces that welcome natural light and ventilation.
The design pays homage to local architecture by incorporating oversized eaves into the roofline, a nod to traditional elements. The Nanhai Arts Center is not only aesthetically innovative but also prioritizes sustainability. The project will integrate solar panels to reduce grid-based power requirements, implement a rainwater collection system, and use greenery strategically to provide interior shading.
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Construction on the Nanhai Arts Center is set to commence this year, with an expected completion date in 2029. This ambitious project continues MAD Architects’ commitment to drawing inspiration from the natural world, a theme previously reflected in their designs inspired by mountains, bamboo leaves, and clouds.
