Background: Ginkgo Swan Lake is situated in Xiushui New District, Jiaxing. This project leverages the area’s natural ecological landscapes and abundant water resources, while integrating rich traditional culture. It features unique attractions such as a ginkgo forest viewing area, a scenic lake train, an art museum, an ecological bird island, and original water town homestays. The lake is envisioned as a future living experience space where ecology and nature coexist in harmony, technology and wisdom blend seamlessly, and art and humanity are intertwined.
Design Concept: Architecture here is not a barrier between humans and nature; instead, it serves as a medium for experiencing nature. Since the project is a theater by the lake, the surrounding lake and mountain scenery create a natural stage. The gentle breeze and bright moon become part of the visitors’ experience, making the natural environment an integral part of the performance.
Half of the building is positioned on the shore, while the other half extends over the water. Upon entering, visitors find themselves at riverbank height, where large steps gradually descend to the water’s surface. Each stepped seating area offers a unique view of the lake. Descending below the waterline, visitors’ perspectives mimic that of a water bird gliding just above the surface. The windows are designed to slide open, effectively dissolving the building’s facade and allowing the breeze from the lake to flow freely through the space. The window sill blurs the boundary between indoors and outdoors, serving as a seamless connection rather than a division.
The design integrates nature both inside and out. The atrium naturally extends into the building, with a ginkgo tree transitioning from lush foliage to a more barren scene, reflecting seasonal changes both indoors and outdoors. As daylight shifts, the tree’s shadow moves inside, functioning like a natural clock. Magpies perch on the branches, chirping briefly before flying away, adding an unscripted, organic rhythm to daily life that captivates and inspires visitors.
The theater consists of two main spaces: one indoors and one on the roof. Ascending the spiral staircase that wraps around the tree leads to the open-air rooftop theater. Whether seated on the expansive steps or standing by the railing, visitors enjoy an unobstructed view where the lake and sky merge into a seamless horizon.
The building’s exterior features antique bronze-colored aluminum alloy curtain walls. Rather than mimicking nature through green colors or abstract patterns, the design allows the structure to quietly blend into the surrounding greenery. Air conditioning units are cleverly concealed beneath the large steps, keeping indoor spaces clean and uncluttered. Bamboo and wood materials for the floors and roof create a familiar atmosphere, inviting visitors to feel comfortable enough to “sit on the ground.” After performances, children often enthusiastically clean the floor themselves.
Project Information
△ General layout plan
△ First floor plan
△ Second floor plan
△ Section diagram
△ Elevation drawing
△ Model diagram
△ Analysis chart
Project Details
Architects: Hexia Architecture Society, MADAM
Area: 361 m²
Photography by: Gu Shang Culture
Manufacturers: Toto, Dajiao Wood, Metish Curtain Wall
Client: Huazhang Real Estate
Location: Jiaxing, China
Must log in before commenting!
Sign Up