Bamboo Breeze: A Fusion of Classical and Contemporary Design

Chengzhe Zhang's Award-Winning Exhibition Space Marries Oriental Aesthetics with Modern Functionality

The design's unique properties lie in its double entrance, which brings a stark contrast between the contemporary and the classical. This design choice, according to Zhang, is a reflection of the endless imagination and the re-creation of the projection of time and space that the concept of "return" symbolizes.

The realization of this design is akin to the scene depicting pavilions in Jiangnan poetry, but presented in a newer way. As one progresses through the space, the spatial relationship gradually unfolds, revealing a rich facade formed by geometric metal lines, gray marble of ink texture, and criss-crossing coffee wood color.

The design specifications include a high central hall, a reception area, and an exhibition area laid out behind the facade. The design of eight screen-style panoramic high windows allows the bamboo landscape outside the building to become the backdrop for the interior's central core. This use of transparency to express spatial relationships is a key feature of Zhang's design.

The design's interaction is also noteworthy. Zhang believes that "space should give people an opportunity to think." The quiet space often gives people a wonderful and harmonious sense of time. The main staircase serves as an enlarged conch structure, introducing natural light to the ground. This can be interpreted as an introverted poetic metaphor for the natural residence.

The project, which started in July 2017 in Suzhou, China, and finished in June 2018, faced challenges in designing the double entrance to meet the owners' expectations. However, Zhang successfully overcame this, creating a design that brings a contrast between contemporary and classical. This design was awarded Platinum in A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2019, recognizing its world-class, exceptional, and highly innovative design.