MUDA-Architects Designs Project Inspired by Lujiatan Wetland Park

The Lujiatan Wetland Park Commercial Service Center, designed by MUDA-Architects, is a remarkable new architectural project. It is situated in Chengdu’s Wenjiang District. This innovative structure is nestled within the verdant landscapes of Lujiatan Wetland Park, creating a harmonious blend of nature, culture, and modern design.

Wenjiang District, often known as the ‘City of Willows,’ boasts a rich history as the birthplace of the ancient Shu-Yufu dynasty. The district’s strategic location and abundant natural resources have made it a hub for cultural and ecological wealth. The Lujiatan Wetland Park, surrounded by the Jinma and Minjiang Rivers, has emerged as a favored destination for eco-tourism, drawing visitors to its scenic beauty and ecological significance.

Architectural Inspiration and Design Philosophy

MUDA-Architects took inspiration from the Jinma River, a tributary of the Minjiang River, which is crucial to the region’s ecology and heritage. The design team incorporated fluid, flowing forms into the project, mirroring the rhythmic movement of the rivers. This approach ensures that the architecture respects the site’s ecological and cultural importance while adopting a modern aesthetic that reflects the landscape of Wenjiang.

Rather than directly mimicking traditional forms, the design abstracts natural motifs to create a contemporary architectural expression. This balance of lightness and ecological sensitivity allows the structure to integrate seamlessly with the wetland environment, establishing a new landmark for Chengdu.

Modern Techniques and Traditional Inspirations

Drawing from the archetype of the Chinese garden pavilion, MUDA-Architects reinterpreted the relationship between roof and column using modern techniques. The fluid curves of the structure evoke riverside textures, while a lightweight roof clad in white metallic panels and transparent glass facades creates the impression of a building ‘floating on water.’

The project departs from conventional layouts, employing a modular approach that reorganizes spatial elements into interconnected zones, encouraging exploration.

Innovative Structural Features

The Lujiatan Wetland Park Commercial Service Center boasts several innovative structural features that enhance its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Streamlined pathways improve accessibility, connecting visitors with the surrounding landscape and fostering active engagement with the site.

A walkable rooftop merges with the ground-level wooden platform, seamlessly connecting the building to the wetland park. On one side, the platform extends towards the water as a cantilevered hydrophilic deck, offering a close connection with nature. On the other, it links to the Jinma River greenway, creating a harmonious transition between architecture and landscape.

Double-Helix Observation Tower

At the heart of the complex stands a double-helix observation tower, which serves as a focal point for visitors. Ascending the tower via a gently spiraling staircase, visitors can experience diverse perspectives of the wetland landscape.

The summit of the tower provides 360-degree panoramic views of the wetlands and the distant Longmen Mountain, offering a memorable and immersive experience.

Ecological and Cultural Integration

The design of the Lujiatan Wetland Park Commercial Service Center emphasizes ecological and cultural integration. By abstracting natural motifs and employing modern techniques, MUDA-Architects have created a structure that respects the site’s heritage while embracing contemporary design principles.

This approach ensures that the building harmonizes with its surroundings, enhancing the visitor experience while preserving the ecological integrity of the wetland park.

Visitor Engagement and Accessibility

The project’s design encourages visitor engagement and accessibility through its interconnected zones and streamlined pathways. These features not only enhance the visitor experience but also promote active interaction with the site’s natural and cultural elements.

The walkable rooftop and cantilevered hydrophilic deck provide unique vantage points for visitors to connect with the wetland environment, fostering a deeper appreciation for the area’s ecological and cultural significance.

Conclusion

The Lujiatan Wetland Park Commercial Service Center is a testament to the innovative and thoughtful design principles of MUDA-Architects. By blending traditional inspirations with modern techniques, the project creates a harmonious balance between architecture and nature.

The structure’s fluid forms, modular layout, and innovative features ensure that it integrates seamlessly with the wetland environment, establishing a new landmark for Chengdu. For more detailed information about this remarkable project, visit the full article on Designboom.