Sunshine White Cube: A Modern Art Gallery in Laomatou

Bringing Art and Natural Light Together

The design of SWC is inspired by the local history and future development plans of Laomatou. SEA Studio sought to respect the historical cityscape of the area while incorporating modern elements. The external walls were rebuilt using brick tiles with dark reddish-brown sash, representing a sense of aging that blends seamlessly with the neighborhood. The entrance hall features a full-height space with exposed steel bars, paying homage to the original architecture and creating a historical atmosphere.

One of the key features of SWC is its emphasis on natural light. Unlike traditional galleries that often have minimal natural light, SWC utilizes positive natural light to enhance the exhibition space. The design incorporates a great opening, shading, and white unification walls to enrich the simple yet elegant space. This approach not only creates a visually appealing environment but also connects the gallery with the front park, creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.

The gallery offers flexible spaces that can be easily adapted for different exhibition requirements. A moving display wall allows for easy mobilization and enhances the gallery's versatility. The design team simulated various scenarios during the design process to ensure efficient use of light and air conditioning, resulting in an integral space that optimizes comfort and functionality.

SWC is not only a space for displaying and selling artistic works but also a hub for workshops, lectures, and other exhibitions. The adaptable display area can be partitioned in various ways to accommodate different occasions and purposes. This flexibility allows SWC to cater to the diverse needs of artists and visitors.

The project, which commenced in April 2014 and finished in November 2014, took a total of seven months to complete. The gallery is located in Laomatou, a historical district in South Bound Shanghai, China. This vibrant area attracts numerous visitors and tourists daily, and the gallery adds to the cultural diffusion and commercial center of the district.

The design of SWC presented several challenges for the team. Balancing the need for natural light with the quiet conditions typically associated with high-end art exhibitions was a creative and technical challenge. Additionally, the project had a limited budget of only 800,000 RMB for a 1000 sqm renovation project, requiring careful budget management.

Sunshine White Cube has received recognition for its innovative design. In 2015, it was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category. This prestigious award acknowledges designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and technical excellence, contributing to improvements in quality of life.

With its unique blend of history, modernity, and emphasis on natural light, Sunshine White Cube is a standout gallery that offers a refreshing and engaging experience for art enthusiasts in Laomatou, Shanghai.