The project is situated in Suzhou and encompasses a comprehensive renovation of approximately 2,000 m², covering both the exterior and interior of the building. This multifunctional complex is divided into distinct zones including a product display area, office spaces, and a club experience reception and negotiation area. Prior to renovation, the storefront was a conventional, single-purpose exhibition hall. The primary objective was to reinvent the storefront’s image and establish an exceptional living art museum for the brand.
△ Facade
The exterior renovation preserves the building’s original structural rhythm and strength. Weather-resistant steel plates with natural rust patterns and seamless joints form a striking architectural sculpture that flows seamlessly from the outside to the interior, creating a unified spatial experience. The design approach involved removing as many of the original outdoor walls as possible to reveal the building’s skeleton, enhancing the interplay of structural elements and introducing natural light. This openness improves the overall display effect and creates a comfortable, natural integration between indoor and outdoor spaces. An open-plan layout ensures smooth and comfortable circulation throughout the space.
The design incorporates traditional Suzhou courtyard rockery stones to evoke a classic landscape atmosphere. Instead of relying on literal concrete paintings that might dominate the product displays, an abstract expression is chosen to inspire endless imagination. The layered structural interweaving combined with the exposed original framework creates a rich, dynamic spatial hierarchy that is both free and playful.
The spherical installation within the spiral staircase area of the main corridor stands out as a focal point. Suspended mid-air, this sphere adds depth and rhythm to the space, evokes a sense of mystery, and sparks boundless imagination.
The architectural framework extends inward and connects with other loose elements to form a Paper Cuttings-style sculptural space, resembling a semi-finished product. Different product display areas are visible through various perspectives and openings, effectively maintaining spatial coherence while facilitating future product updates and rearrangements. To balance the rationality of the frame and Paper Cuttings composition, a free-form intersecting linear installation made from rusted steel plates is introduced, adding dynamic energy to the spatial design.
Suzhou evokes rich cultural traditions and an exquisite lifestyle, often symbolized by bamboo weaving. After thorough consideration by the art team, a seemingly chaotic linear installation was created. Its flowing, cursive-like lines resemble flowing sand or a bundle of dry straw in autumn fields, offering a natural, warm, and inviting embellishment that softens the space.
Design Drawings
△ First Floor Plan
△ Second Floor Plan
△ Interior Composition
△ Interior Composition
△ Aerial View
Project Information
Project Type: Renovation, Interior Architecture
Location: Suzhou, China
Designer: Weitu Design
Area: 2,000 m²
Year: 2019
Manufacturers: AnPuSheng, Dulux, Shanghai Tongxing
Lead Architect: Zhao Rui
Design Team: Li Longjun, Huang Zhibin, Liu Fangyuan, He Jingyun, Qu Qunying, Lin Zhuoxin, Zhang Yi
Client: J+ Architecture Life Art Museum
Construction Team: Cao Lin Team
Partner: Xi Xingqian
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