Yihao Tong's Cetacean: An Eco-Friendly Whale Exhibition Center

Bringing the Underwater World to Land with Sustainable Design

The Cetacean project stands out due to its unique bionic form, which draws inspiration from the tail and skeleton of a whale. This design language, coupled with its eco-friendly features, makes it a noteworthy addition to Iceland's cultural landscape. All materials used in the construction are recyclable, and the design maximizes natural light, reducing the building's energy consumption.

The project was realized using traditional wood mortise and tenon joint techniques, concrete placement, and glass curtain walls. The building's dimensions are 50 meters long, 40 meters wide, and 7 meters high, providing ample space for exhibitions and public engagement. The exterior landscape invites locals and visitors to relax and enjoy the sun during summer, while the interior offers a unique vantage point for observing the aurora or whale migration in winter.

Developed over four months in Milan, Italy, from August to December 2021, the project is yet to be completed. Once finished, it is expected to enhance Iceland's appeal as a travel destination. The design team, led by Yihao Tong, faced the challenge of creating a structure that not only resonates with the local culture and environment but also highlights the importance of environmental protection.

Research played a crucial role in the realization of the Cetacean project. Husavik, known as the Whale Capital of Iceland, boasts a 98% whale sighting rate during whale-watching trips. The design incorporates this local characteristic, with its curved roof offering a new viewpoint for whale watching and northern lights viewing. The roof's curvature also minimizes snow build-up, reducing both material and energy consumption.

The Cetacean project's innovative and sustainable design earned it the Silver A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2022. This prestigious accolade is bestowed upon designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise, creativity, and innovation. Yihao Tong's Cetacean is a testament to the power of design in bridging the gap between humans and nature, promoting environmental sustainability, and enhancing cultural experiences.