Unveiling the Cultural Exchange: A Marvel of Modern Architecture

Award-winning convention centre in Guilin, China, inspired by Tiffany's diamond ring

The Cultural Exchange Convention Centre, located in Guilin, China, is a testament to the innovative work of designers Massimo Mercurio, Kimberly Liu, and Sam Zhang. The building, inspired by a diamond ring, symbolizes the idea of a wedding. The design was sparked by a former colleague's suggestion for a structure with strong character, something beyond average taste. The site's attractive location, with a river and a range of low hills forming a backdrop, further influenced the design. The building faces Moon Hill, a hill with a hole through the middle that resembles the moon at night.

The Cultural Exchange Convention Centre is more than just a wedding hall. It includes a lobby, reception area, cocktail area, rooms for the bride and groom, and guest rooms. The original idea was to have a diamond-shaped wedding hall, but the design team suggested shaping the entire complex like a wedding ring. The central hall, inspired by the famous Tiffany ring, is diamond-shaped. The building lifts up to 'support' the diamond, tapering away on either side so that the roof gradually drops down to meet the ground. This design creates a pathway around the lake, allowing guests to walk from the ground to the top of the roof.

The realization of this design was a technical challenge. The hall is made of clear glass, with sub-frames kept as light as possible to suggest a diamond or crystal form. Two clamps of grey granite hold the diamond-shaped hall in place. Originally, the building was to be clad in titanium, but due to costs, it is now clad in a skin of titanium look-alike aluminium. This material is textured to suggest an etched ring and references the faceting of the centrally placed diamond.

The Cultural Exchange Convention Centre is not just a building; it's an interactive experience. The design allows for visual interaction between guests and the beautiful site. The semi-circular wedding hall wraps around a large circular pond, reflecting the mountain and the architecture, creating a sense of infinity and heightening the building's sensual appeal.

Completed in 2016, the project faced numerous creative and technical challenges. Despite these hurdles, the design team's innovative approach resulted in a unique, functional, and aesthetically pleasing convention centre. The Cultural Exchange Convention Centre was awarded Silver in A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2018, a testament to the team's outstanding expertise and innovation.

In conclusion, the Cultural Exchange Convention Centre is a shining example of modern architecture. Its unique design, inspired by a diamond ring, and its integration with the surrounding landscape, make it a remarkable structure. The design team's innovative approach and technical expertise have resulted in a building that is not just functional, but also a work of art.