Heavenly Water Service Center: A Harmonious Blend of Architecture and Nature

Designed by Zhenfei Wang, this award-winning service center is a testament to innovative architecture and design.

The Heavenly Water Service Center, designed by Zhenfei Wang, stands as a beacon of innovative architecture, seamlessly merging with its natural surroundings. Inspired by nature and the environment, the building maximizes the lake and mountain views, bringing people closer to water and nature.

The building, which served as the primary architecture of the International Horticultural Exposition 2014 in Qingdao, undertakes multiple functions including circulation hub, activity center, restaurant, recreational landscape, and cultural communication. Its unique 3-armed junction system and multiple routes provide maximum visitor experience and accessibility. This design is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, merging into its surrounding landscape.

Constructed primarily from concrete, steel, glass, and aluminum panels, the building is a testament to the use of modern materials in architecture. The form of the building was generated using parametric design methodology, and Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology was used to ensure the quality of the building. The building spans over a site area of 23,000 m2, with a floor area of 6,539 m2, standing 10 m tall with two floors.

Visitors can enjoy nature while dining in the restaurants or walking in the outdoor landscape areas like roof terraces and waterfront decks. The design ensures that visitors from all directions can swiftly reach the service center area, providing a venue for viewing and resting for those who can’t gain immediate access into the service centers.

The design project, which started in April 2012, was completed in June 2014. The design treatment of the relationship between architecture and nature was a vital aspect of the project, ensuring the organic integration of the building with the outstanding natural landscape of the Baiguo Mountain and the Heavenly Water lake. The landscape architecture form and multiple routes system were applied to overcome these challenges.

The Heavenly Water Service Center was awarded Platinum in A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2017. The award recognizes world-class, exceptional, and highly innovative designs that showcase unmatched professionalism, contribute to societal wellbeing, and make the world a better place.