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JADE MUSEUM BY ARCHI-UNION ARCHITECTS



Archi-Union Architects

Archi-Union recently converted an office building located in the high-density Xuhui District, in downtown Shanghai, into a modern art gallery, keeping the original building structure.
 
Archi-Union Architects

“Faced with the change in the use of the building, we first deconstruct the straightforward logic of the space and blur the functions’ interface” say architects.

Archi-Union Architects

Different layers of functions are organized around the main circulation space, facing the central courtyard. The simple single-layer mode was redefined with the introduction of a non-linear space.

Archi-Union Architects

The simple vertical and horizontal circulation movements influence each other in the inserted space, the blur of the interface and boundaries make the space fold and integrated.

Archi-Union Architects

The circulation flow adapts itself to this incision in the body of space. The antithesis between sloping and balance, continuity and boundary turns the simple coexistence of elements into a discussion of geometry.

Archi-Union Architects

The complex logic of the staircase form breaks the traditional two dimensional layer relations, but it’s not an arbitrary treatment out of control: steps, door openings, handrails, beams and roof are distinguished components of the building structure that have a delicate and reasonable interconnecting relation.

Archi-Union Architects

Every perceived line has its logical necessity; but the curving surface softens this logic, it gives the visitor a feeling between rationale and randomness, creates an exciting spatial feeling at the edge of conflicting ideas.

Archi-Union Architects

The folding of circulation lines and the twisted form of the inserted space create an entrance on the first floor, which faces the central courtyard. The permanent exhibition hall is located in front of the entrance.

Archi-Union Architects

Via the stairs near the exhibition hall, one reaches the VIP exhibition space. The curving walls divide space into several micro spaces and also guide the visitors’ flow. The artworks are placed into the curving walls.

Archi-Union Architects

Resting and communication space peer from behind these walls. In front of the VIP exhibition space is the teahouse, which is connected to the outdoors terrace.

Archi-Union Architects
Archi-Union Architects 








Archi-Union Architects
Archi-Union Architects 









Location: Xuhui District, Shanghai, China 
Architect in Charge: Philip F. Yuan 
Project Team: Alex Han, Fuzi He 
Area: 1,000 sqm 
Year: 2013 
Client: Jade Museum 
Photo: Xia Zhi