MUDA-architects' haikou visitor center is enclosed by a fluid rooftop

haikou Xixiu Park Visitor Center: Innovation from Tradition

Situated amidst the tropical coastal landscapes of Hainan Province in China, the newly completed Haikou Xixiu Park Visitor Center is shaped by MUDA-Architects with inspiration from both indigenous cultural values and contemporary form. Designed and constructed over a span of three years, this project sinuously harmonizes with the surrounding natural environment while upholding the team’s principles of environmental stewardship. With its gracefully curving rooftop, this oval-shaped structure is affectionately referred to as an oval pebble picked up from the shore.

image © Arch-Exist | @archexist

muda-architects takes to the coast of hainan

Haikou City, located on the southern coast of China, boasts lush tropical scenery and abundant natural resources. The west coast area, where the Haikou Xixiu Park is situated, serves as an exhibition space to showcase the region’s distinctive features and rich culture. Adjacent to the main road and the north underground parking lot, the visitor center assumes the role of a prominent landmark at the park entrance. MUDA-Architects took inspiration from Hainan’s coastal culture and ingeniously incorporated the existing park layout, creating an oval structure that blends with the contours of the site.

image © Archi-translator

the cascading form and facade

MUDA-Architects’ Haikou Xixiu Visitor Center is at once recognized for its sinuous roof, which cascades gracefully over four levels, recalling the gentle movement of water. Paying homage to traditional residential forms in the region, this roof design adds a touch of familiarity and cultural significance. The facade of the building is enveloped entirely in highly transparent ultra-white glass, allowing for an open and unobstructed interior space that provides visitors with a panoramic view of the park. The translucent glass facade creates a captivating illusion of the hovering roof gently resting upon the rainforest.

image © Arch-Exist

To enhance the architectural composition, the architects incorporate perforated aluminum sunshade louvers into the glass curtain wall. These elements not only add visual interest to the facade but also create an undulating rhythmic wave, echoing the coastal features of the region. Moreover, the panels and protruding roof serve a functional purpose by maintaining a comfortable temperature within the interior spaces, contributing to reduced energy consumption.

image © Archi-translator

inside the visitor center

Respecting the natural environment and the city’s characteristics, the visitor center’s design harmonizes with the park’s existing layout. The transformation of curvilinear edges into an elliptical form creates an expansive inner courtyard that contrasts with the solid architectural spaces, offering visitors a transitional experience as they approach the center from the park. The exterior facade, adorned with a glistening titanium aluminum roof, ensures that the building stands out amidst its surroundings. Meanwhile, the inner roof features wood-grained aluminum panels, establishing a dialogue with the natural context.

image © Archi-translator

Upon entering through the main entrance, the discernible lines of the roof guide the infusion of light, gracefully illuminating the spatial realm within. The interior spaces unfold in a stratified manner, reflecting the design of the roof. The initial tier comprises a reception hall, a versatile exhibition area, and a café, creating a welcoming environment for visitors. Moving further, the second tier reveals service spaces such as restrooms, a nurturing nursery, a medical center, and administrative and surveillance areas. Throughout the interior and exterior, white steel columns fulfill a structural role while creating a symphony of rhythmic spatial encounters for discerning visitors.