The design inspiration for the Starry Town of Fuxian Lake came from the serene beauty of the lake itself. The architects were struck by the lake's quiet depth and aimed to create a structure that would enhance rather than disrupt this natural tranquility. The design incorporates the form of a leaf, with a soft curve connection, termed a 'Jade Ribbon', linking adjoining spaces. The ground floor is heavily glazed, allowing for unobstructed views of the lake from any angle.
The Starry Town of Fuxian Lake is unique in its combination of aesthetic appeal and functionality. The roof, resembling a white leaf, serves as a sculpture and a shade, floating quietly on the bank of the lake. The structure is the first cultural tourism project of Longfor Properties, and it provides an ideal platform for viewing the lake while also serving as a sales office.
The realization of the design involved the use of advanced technology and meticulous planning. The canopy over the entrance is made up of triangular mirror-finished stainless steel panels, arranged at an angle to create a curvature. The walls, made of metallic aluminum plates, stretch from one end of the structure to the other and are hollowed out at specific spots after extensive 3D modeling.
The project, which spans 245 meters, includes a 1673 square meter visitor center, a 200 square meter Zen book cafe, and a Jade Ribbon bridge extending 145 meters. The leaf roofing covers approximately 1200 square meters, and the aluminum wall plates measure 3 meters by 1.5 meters. The design was realized in Yuxi, with the project starting in March 2018 and finishing in October 2019.
Despite the challenges posed by the complex 3D modeling and construction, and the requirement to minimize pollution, the architects were able to create a design that is both beautiful and functional. The project was awarded the Golden A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2020, a testament to the architects' creativity and expertise.
With the Starry Town of Fuxian Lake, MadeMake Architects have created a space that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. The design, which blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings, is a testament to the architects' ability to create structures that enhance rather than disrupt the environment. This project serves as a reminder of the potential of architecture to create spaces that are both beautiful and functional.
Project Designers: MadeMake Architects
Image Credits: Image #1: Photographer Chao Wang, Starry Town of Fuxian Lake, 2019.
Image #2: Photographer Chao Wang, Starry Town of Fuxian Lake, 2019.
Image #3: Photographer Chao Wang, Starry Town of Fuxian Lake, 2019.
Image #4: Photographer Chao Wang, Starry Town of Fuxian Lake, 2019.
Image #5: Photographer Chao Wang, Starry Town of Fuxian Lake, 2019.
Project Team Members: Sheng Chai
Xin Wu
Project Name: Starry Town
Project Client: MadeMake Architects