The ‘Different’ gas station is a newly constructed facility by Halu New Energy Technology Co., Ltd., located in Dongying, Shandong. Dongying is a significant oil hub in China and also the birthplace of Halu. With this in mind, Halu aimed to create a distinct and innovative gas station here.
Gas station design has evolved significantly over time. Initially, stations centered around a single gas island. This later expanded into multifunctional spaces featuring large, impressive roofs. Eventually, branding efforts led to a standardized steel grid roof model. This evolution reflects a shift from diverse forms to commercial uniformity. In this project, the team strives to rediscover the diverse architectural expressions of gas stations.
The station’s distinctive strip texture and tubular arch roof are inspired by its location in a rice field north of Municipal Road. The soil in Dongying is highly saline and alkaline, with multiple water channels running through the fields to drain excess salts. These alternating strips of fields and water create a unique pattern that informed the design. The gas station features a continuous tubular arch roof with a standard semicircular cross-section, symbolizing the cylindrical shapes of oil tankers and pipelines. This design allows modular replication, where the number and length of arches can be adjusted to fit different station sizes.
The gas station’s roof consists of five tubular arches arranged in a pattern of alternating sizes. The front of the roof forms a gentle curve, while the sides appear as thick rectangular blocks. From a distance, drivers mainly see the side view—a suspended, substantial rectangular form that functions as a visual guide. Upon entering the station, the front curve becomes prominent, appearing delicate and lightweight, which diminishes the sense of bulk. This design creates a visual contrast of scale from far to near.
The continuous tubular arch roof features spatial variation that covers the fueling zone. As vehicles move horizontally beneath it, the roof space rises and falls rhythmically, creating an undulating effect that enhances the spatial experience.
The standard Halu gas station combines three core functions: refueling, a convenience supermarket, and car washing. Building on this, a second-floor coffee lounge with scenic views has been added. The overhanging roof and French windows offer panoramic views of the surrounding rice fields, creating a relaxing coffee space. This area also serves as a conference and exhibition venue for Halu.
Project Drawings
△ Perspective View
△ Arch Bottom Plan
△ First Floor Plan
△ Second Floor Plan
△ Elevation Drawing
△ Elevation & Sectional View
Project Information
Architect: SITUATE Sifang Architectural Firm
Area: 880 m²
Project Year: 2022
Photographer: Du Lao
Design Team: Zhang Minghui, Zhang Zhen, Ren Mingmin
Structural Design: Shi Wei, Liu Qiliang
Owner: Shandong Halu New Energy Technology Co., Ltd
Location: Dongying, China
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