Shang He Gallery: A Modern Interpretation of Kaifeng's Cultural Heritage

Xiwen Guo's Award-Winning Design Merges History, Culture, and Innovation

The design of Shang He Gallery is deeply rooted in the history and culture of Kaifeng, an ancient capital known as Bianjing in ancient times. The city's rich cultural heritage, particularly the Song Dynasty's influence, is reflected in the design. The masterpiece "Qingming Shanghe Tu" or "Riverside Scene at Qingming Festival," a depiction of the bustling city during the Northern Song Dynasty, serves as a symbol of Kaifeng's history and culture and is a central theme in the gallery's design.

Xiwen Guo's design approach is characterized by a blend of traditional elements and modern technology. By using three-dimensional composition, contrast, and other artistic techniques, the designer presents a profound oriental philosophical wisdom in the opposition and unity of light and shade, virtual and reality, inside and outside, opening and closing. The use of modern metal carving technology and Chinese red to interpret the "Qingming Shanghe Tu" makes it the most eye-catching part of the space.

What sets Shang He Gallery apart is its multifunctionality. Not only does it serve as a sales center for Landsea Kaifeng Bianjing Xihuafu project, but it also unfolds the amazing prosperity of Bianjing as described in the masterpiece "Qingming Shanghe Tu" in an artistic way that marvels the world. The project used customized corrugated marble, metal carve and mold, requiring strictly controlled modeling and relatively longer production, but the effect well worth the effort.

The design process was a collaborative effort among the design team, the client, and the constructor. The project, located in Kaifeng, Henan Province, China, began in November 2019 and was completed in October 2020. The research for the design focused mainly on understanding the site, especially the historical and cultural features of Kaifeng, which inspired the use of the masterpiece "Qingming Shanghe Tu".

The challenges encountered during the design process were creatively and technically overcome. The ground floor planning meets the commercial functions of the sales office, and the consumer journey is reasonably planned. The second floor serves as an art space, with a design that follows the original herringbone structure of the building, reflecting the Oriental wisdom of the unity of heaven and man. The large area of floor glass on the second floor offers a panoramic view of the courtyard, with the building's reflection becoming a part of the scene, conveying the ancient and profound oriental philosophy.

The Shang He Gallery is a testament to Xiwen Guo's ability to blend history, culture, and modern design concepts into a unique and engaging space. The design's recognition with a Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2021 is a testament to its creativity, technical excellence, and cultural significance.