The Industry Promotion Center at Sanya Yazhou Bay Science and Technology City serves as a key gateway to the Sanya Yazhou Bay Deep Sea Science and Technology City. The central building showcases designs inspired by Hainan’s local culture, featuring thoughtfully crafted experiential pathways and resilient architectural strategies to offer visitors a truly unique experience.
The design of the main building draws inspiration from traditional residences native to Hainan Island. Five primary roofs are arranged in a circular formation, connected by overhead bridges that create a central open courtyard while minimizing impact on the natural environment. A staircase at the atrium’s edge spirals upward, linking the two floors. Located less than three kilometers from the coast, the central building appears like an island floating within the surrounding ocean landscape.
To enhance the visitor experience, the Gensler design team developed a comprehensive route through the center, divided into three stages: “pre-exhibition,” “during exhibition,” and “post-exhibition.” Visitors first arrive at the outdoor plaza, where winding paths and lush tropical plants evoke the charm of an island paradise. This elevated design seamlessly connects the interior and exterior environments. After exploring exhibits or participating in events, visitors can gather and socialize in the central courtyard.
Surrounding the eco-friendly buildings are various native plants arranged in verdant gardens, providing natural shading and cooling. Hainan Island’s warm and humid climate offers ideal conditions for natural ventilation, which the project fully capitalizes on to reduce cooling demands. The five main roofs feature sloped designs that facilitate air circulation through openings. The building’s façade is clad with uniquely shaped perforated aluminum panels with triangular patterns, enhancing natural light modulation and providing effective shading. When the glass walls behind these panels are opened, the interior becomes fully transparent, reducing operational carbon emissions.
The mild climate in Sanya creates an excellent environment for natural ventilation, which the design leverages to reduce cooling loads. The building’s elevated structure minimizes ground impact and respects natural surroundings, effectively reducing its footprint. Passive sunshade exterior panels allow sunlight and air to penetrate the building while shading adjacent spaces. Prefabricated components for the main structure and exterior walls shortened the design and construction timeline to just 16 months. Additionally, the site features a parking lot with 20 electric vehicle charging stations. The sloping roof design supports the “chimney effect” to enhance ventilation. Native landscaping complements the climate and contributes to community engagement, making the building a welcoming gathering space.
Before leaving, visitors are naturally drawn to the atrium, the building’s core space, designed as a communal hub for sharing experiences and fostering connections.
Facing a tight project timeline, the design team prioritized efficiency by adopting prefabricated building technology. Both the main structure and exterior protective walls consist of prefabricated components, successfully reducing the project duration from design to completion to just 16 months. This approach also minimized noise and waste during construction. Completed in 2020, the Yazhou Bay Science and Technology City Industry Promotion Center has become a prominent local landmark and public gathering spot. The project reflects Gensler’s deep research into local culture and commitment to creating designs with regional identity. Additionally, it demonstrates how architecture can activate communities, encouraging residents to become active contributors.
Project Drawings
△ First Floor Plan
△ Second Floor Plan
△ Exhibition Hall Diagram
Project Information
Architect: Gensler
Area: 6000 m²
Year Completed: 2020
Photographer: Gensler
Design Director: Hasan Syed
Senior Designer: Roman Wittmer
Project Manager: Jiang Weijiao
Project Architect: Wu Yingjie
Designer: Shi Jue
Urban Designers: Jing Jing, Chen Yubing
Location: Sanya, China
Must log in before commenting!
Sign Up