Architectural Concept
The architectural concept starts from the inside out. It begins with the desire to create a social hub - a central space - encouraging both visual and physical interaction between visitors, users and exhibitions. This is achieved through a large, diagonally oriented atrium space which spirals upwards linking the various programmatic functions and visitor experience.
Shifting from the corner entry to the top-center of the roof, the atrium creates a light filled interior which penetrates deep into the building. The diagonal atrium provides deeper floor-plates at the lower levels for controlled, exhibition lighting, while creating thinner floor widths at the upper levels for non-exhibition spaces; optimizing day lighting. The ETFE roof has the capability to provide sun shading through an inflatable inner layer. The staircase follows the inner spiraling movement of the atrium and floor plates. The atrium’s terraces create double and triple height areas for exhibition, spreading exhibition and program information throughout the various programmatic zones, while also creating a strong sense of place and interaction.