The Student Learning and Activity Center is a pivotal project within the campus master plan of Wenzhou Kean University. Positioned at the heart of the campus axis, it marks the junction between the academic and residential zones, serving as a landmark that embodies the cultural spirit of the university. The building features a transparent and lightweight design that harmonizes with the central lake, symbolizing a mutual relationship between nature and architecture.
This innovative project merges a multifunctional student activity center with a library, redefining the traditional role of university libraries and showcasing the evolution of learning environments in the 21st century. It becomes a vibrant hub where campus life flows dynamically between movement and stillness.
Wenzhou Kean University blends Eastern and Western cultural philosophies and enjoys a prime location embraced by natural scenery. Surrounded on three sides by Chutai Mountain and bordered by the Litang River, the site naturally inspires the design concept.
The Student Learning and Activity Center interprets the traditional notion that “the joy of mountains and waters lies in the heart of learning” through a modern lens. It channels the energy of nature into inspiration and intellectual vitality—surrounded by verdant mountains, flowing waters, birdsong, and fragrant blossoms.
The building’s modern, transparent façade extends the interior space seamlessly into the landscape, inviting the picturesque environment inside. The atmosphere changes with the passage of time and seasons, reflecting the university’s open and inclusive educational philosophy by fostering connection, communication, and activity.
Inside, the building’s circulation aligns with the campus’s main pedestrian pathways, extending vertically from the ground floor to the upper levels. This creates a “vertical street” that connects diverse functional spaces, anchored by a “campus staircase” concept.
This public corridor generates multiple distinct “places” offering varied experiences and functions, serving as a catalyst for student interaction. The stepped spaces blur the boundary between indoors and outdoors, fostering a lively and engaging campus community atmosphere.
The architectural vocabulary is defined by recurring and reinforced design elements, creating a clean and coherent language. As the horizontal volumes stack, the building’s presence gains strength and formality.
Extended eaves provide expansive interior views while offering effective shading, transforming harsh sunlight into comfortable reading light and casting dynamic patterns of light and shadow within. At night, the illuminated structure resembles a glowing beacon within the campus.
The interior rhythm contrasts the exterior’s orderly form. Layered, staggered floor slabs create a dynamic, lively environment that encourages exploration and innovation.
The building is composed of three main sections: a student activity center, a library, and an information technology center. The lower levels are designed to be public and active, while upper floors offer quieter, more private spaces.
At its core lies a tall, public hall that serves as the vibrant heart of campus life. This space accommodates a variety of social and academic functions, including a large lecture hall for conferences, an open-air theater for gatherings, distinctive learning steps, a student service center, exhibition spaces, and a coffee and book bar that integrates with the natural surroundings.
Project Drawings
△ Aerial View
△ Master Plan
△ First Floor Plan
△ Second Floor Plan
△ Third Floor Plan
△ Fourth Floor Plan
△ Fifth Floor Plan
△ Sixth Floor Plan
△ Concept Sketch
△ Analysis Diagram
△ Circulation Analysis
Project Information
Architect: Perkins& Will
Area: 25,792 m²
Year: 2023
Photographer: Tian Fang
Manufacturers: China Southern Glass, Haida, Steelcase
Lead Designer: James Lu
Design Team: James Lu, Hiroyuki Shinohara, Chen Qi, Zhang Siyuan, Li Jianping, Li Cen, Sun Yanfang, Joseph Huang, Natalie Seah
Client: Wenzhou Kean University
Collaborative Designer: Zhejiang University Architectural Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd
Landscape Design: Pan Asia International
Facade Consultant: Forward Exterior Wall Architectural Design Consulting (Shanghai) Co., Ltd
Construction Contractor: Zhejiang Second Construction Group Co., Ltd
Location: Wenzhou
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