The Sun River Art Centre in Wanning, Hainan, designed by Wutopia Lab, embodies the harmonious fusion of modern innovation and cultural significance. This stunning art center, developed for the Chia Tai Xinglong Coffee Industry Development Co., Ltd, draws on the rich historical narrative of overseas Chinese workers, who once fled Indonesia to establish the coffee plantation that originally occupied this site.
ROJECT OVERVIEW
Location: Wanning, Hainan, China
Architecture: Wutopia Lab
Client: Chia Tai Xinglong Coffee Industry Development Co., Ltd
Landscape Design: Chongqing Weitu Landscape Design Co., Ltd
Lighting Design: Chloe Zhang
Floor Area: 2,606 sq-m
Photography: Liu Guowei
Wutopia Lab ingeniously transforms three existing structures from agricultural land into a vibrant cultural landmark, creating a compelling journey for visitors. As you approach the art centre, the design begins to reveal its architectural artistry: from a cavernous entryway and an inviting arched lobby to thoughtfully positioned skylights and a tranquil water feature. Each element intertwines architectural components with references to both the historic plantation and the majestic surrounding mountains, forming a seamless narrative.
The layout features distinct east and west auxiliary spaces that serve as reception and office areas. At the heart of the complex, the central building stands as the core of the art centre, featuring an artificial pool that leads gracefully to its entrance. To unify the three structures, Wutopia Lab has introduced a semi-transparent covering that casts an ethereal veil across the site, reminiscent of abstract mountain peaks. This innovative design creates a fluid dialogue between the indoor and outdoor environments, enhanced by sky bridges and outdoor staircases.
One of the hidden gems of the Sun River Art Centre is the coffee garden perched on the rooftop, offering a panoramic vista of the charming town below. Under the radiant Hainan sun, the ingenious perforated membrane atop the structure creates a dynamic flickering effect, earning the building its affectionate nickname: ‘Flickering Peak’. As day transitions to night, colored lights illuminate the façade and interior, further transforming the space’s identity.
The Sun River Art Centre serves as a dynamic canvas, shifting from a pure, flickering white peak during the day to a vibrant, illuminated mountain at night. The interplay of space and light results in a structure rich in dramatic visual expression, inviting visitors to embark on a spiritual journey. The multilayered structure and flowing pathways resonate with a sense of pilgrimage, guiding guests through a space that embodies both mythology and technology.
Wutopia Lab’s design pays homage to local history while seamlessly integrating modern innovation. The translucent mountain peaks, combined with shifting light projections, emanate a sacred, ethereal quality, creating an atmosphere that fosters community connection. This artistic endeavor reflects a powerful narrative that intertwines the past and present, igniting a sense of pride and engagement among local residents.
The ‘Flickering Peak’ stands as a testament to the power of architecture in activating communities. By weaving local histories with contemporary design, the Sun River Art Centre becomes a vibrant hub of cultural expression and innovation. Visitors are invited not only to appreciate the artistry of the structure but also to reflect on the historical significance embedded within its walls.
As we explore the Sun River Art Centre, we are reminded of the transformative potential of design to celebrate heritage and foster a deeper connection with our surroundings. The interplay of light, space, and community within this architectural marvel encapsulates a vision that resonates with both history and modernity.
This project is not just an architectural triumph but a beacon of inspiration, encouraging us to reflect on the profound relationship between our spaces and the stories they tell. In the embrace of Wutopia Lab’s design, the Sun River Art Centre invites all to share in its vibrant narrative, echoing the sentiment that our built environments can indeed reflect who we are and where we come from.
