CHINESE CULTURAL CENTER

Chinese culture is a combination of non-tangible elements (like spirit, lifestyle, spatial qualities) and a unique architectural style. The architectural elements include heavy straight lines, regularity and a symbiotic relationship between symmetry and asymmetry. The form of the cultural center is created keeping in mind these important aspects of Chinese culture. The form both in plan and 3-D are made of heavy straight lines, at various angles, of various heights, creating a dynamic form. The design does not involve traditional architectural elements of Chinese Architecture, but uses basic design principles used in Chinese architecture to derive a contemporary form that would blend with the modern streets-capes of the eco-city. The form of the building is designed with a certain regularity by using a sloping roof (1:10 slope) that starts from one end, reaches the maximum height (13 m) and then again ends on the other end of the building, forming one-directional circulation pattern. Chinese style embraces nature and seeks for well integration of built with the unbuilt. Thus the proposal involves landscaping elements like water bodies, fountains and green landscapes within the building, integrating soft and hard elements of design.
Landscaping:
Chinese style of design predominantly includes the use of Feng-Shui principles especially for landscape design. These principles corresponds to non-tangible elements of Chinese Culture. Feng-Shui involves the use of five main elements of Chinese Culture; water, earth, fire, Metal and wood; each of which has it importance with respect to the ambiance and spiritual influence it creates over a space. The proposal incorporates representation of all five elements to create culturally appropriate spatial qualities. The proposal is also sensitive towards the importance of directions and colors in Feng-Shui design. For example, sitting area is planned in the north west direction (corresponding to element earth) to bring travel luck and create a helpful energy. Similarly, water fountain is placed on the south east corner (corresponding to element soft wood) to bring wealth and opportunity. Dragon statue made of wood is placed in the East (corresponding to element wood)  to promote health and longevity. In the west, playground for kids is situated (corresponding to element metal) to promote creativity and good luck for children. Water body in the North direction (corresponding to element water) promotes good luck.