The “Southwest Independent Architects Cross-border Exhibition,” organized and executed by Luhu A8 Design Center, was held in Luhu. Iwakawa Architecture was honored to participate, designing and constructing the “Staircase Art Museum” inspired by the site’s environment and their architectural vision. This project not only provided practical design and construction experience but also served as a thoughtful reflection on architecture and design.
Venue
The project is situated on a staircase at the entrance of Luhu Yunyun Park, connecting the upper and lower levels and naturally drawing attention. Iwakawa Architecture has always aimed to infuse architectural meaning into commonly used spaces, enabling people to experience the beauty of architecture in their daily lives.
Ultimately, we decided to create a space rich in architectural significance above this staircase—a unique art museum built on the staircase itself.
Design
The design divides the staircase into three distinct spaces, crowned by a towering golden dome at the highest point. Moving down the staircase, a semi-circular viewing area is formed between the dome and the lower space.
The building’s structure follows the slope of the stairs, expanding where the staircase widens. Inside, the space is divided into two exhibition areas—a larger and a smaller one—separated by partition walls.
△ Elevation drawing
△ Elevation drawing
The entire structure respects the dimensions of the existing staircase, evolving into a new architectural form that not only fits harmoniously within the site but also enhances the surrounding environment.
Construction
At its core, architecture is about construction—the art of connecting design and realization through materials, techniques, and technology.
For this project, we selected a construction system combining a steel skeleton with wooden frameworks, enclosed by cement Etter boards. To blend seamlessly with the Luhu Lake environment, we finished the exterior with white paint. This choice not only integrates the building with its surroundings but also lightens the structure and minimizes environmental impact.
Venue Philosophy
We believe that exceptional architecture should harmonize with its environment, bring unexpected delights to everyday life, and enhance people’s living experiences.
Architecture should not only serve its functional purpose but also give deeper meaning to its location. A place is more than a physical space—it should nurture the lives of its inhabitants and awaken their spiritual awareness.
Spirit
Architecture has never been created solely for functional needs. Throughout history, human construction has carried spiritual significance, with architecture becoming a sanctuary for human thought and expression.
The ascending staircase topped with the golden dome symbolizes this spiritual ambition. The Staircase Art Museum aims to touch hearts through this raw expression of architectural confession, inviting visitors to experience its spiritual depth within this modest art space.
Technical Drawings
△ First-floor sectional view
△ Second-floor sectional view
Project Information
Project Name: Staircase Art Museum
Location: Luhu Lake, Chengdu, China
Type: Building Installation
Building Area: 60 square meters
Project Duration: February 2021 – April 2021
Design: Iwakawa Architecture
Lead Architect: Sun Yan
Team Members: Sun Guoyu, Ji Xinyue, Niu Zhishui, Zhong Qiwei, Sun Jia, Wang Yilin, Deng Tuo, Xie Tong
Exhibition Organizer: Luhu A8 Design Center
Producer: Liang Rui
Curators: Nana, Deng Qiao
Contact Email: 550621315@qq.com
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