Project Overview

Xi'an International Cultural Communication Centre, as a new business hub, stands in an evolving urban district. Diverging from considerations of the context, the design by MADA s.p.a.m. Architects embark on a more macroscopic perspective. Anchored in the concept of "Urban Ferment", the design emphasizes regional imagery and international stature, catalyzing and guiding the development and construction of each plot in the future.
The transparent curtain walls permit abundant natural light and the integration of natural elements into the space. The design's terraced form increases the accessibility of green spaces and public areas. In conjunction with the interiors' pure technological essence, this creates an attractive and inclusive community model, while showcasing a multifaceted functional experience.

Project Commissioner

Xi'an High-Tech Zone City Core Development & Construction Co., Ltd.

Project Creator

MADA s.p.a.m.

Team

MA Qingyun, ZHANG Jiawen, WANG Duo, LIU Fang, ZHANG Qi, ZHOU Wenxin, CHEN Yuyan, YANG Chuhao

Project Brief

To craft an international urban landmark that grows within the cultural context of the city and leads regional development, the design features two opposing "tower" structures oriented north and south. This arrangement skillfully avoids the diagonal geological fault line that cuts across the site, while the trapezoid contours of the buildings echo the distant Qinling Mountains, the cradle of Chinese civilization.
The terraced form of the buildings clearly articulates their structural hierarchy and creates outdoor public spaces on each level, shaping a layered greenery urban landscape. Furthermore, the layout, higher in the north (47.5 meters) and lower in the south (20.5 meters), not only enhances natural lighting for the interior but also creates a stunning visual impact.

Project Innovation/Need

The design addresses the ground fissure by continuing the setback approach of the adjacent towers, transforming it into a sunken landscape courtyard. Commercial supporting facilities such as restaurants are strategically placed in the underground areas on both sides, turning what could have been a negative space into a vibrant area for leisure and entertainment. The courtyard, reminiscent of a valley, not only has an inward-gathering characteristic but also creates a new urban axis that looks towards the Qinling Mountains on one side and points directly to the central innovation district on the other.
The large, open lobbies of the north and the south buildings, combined with metal, marble, and pure white spaces, respond to the scientific city's image with a high-tech ambiance. Additionally, the glass curtain walls allow more natural greenery to blend into everyday office interactions. The design moves away from the monotony and dullness of conventional office buildings, and endows the space with an experience that is "oxygen-rich, substantial, and warm."

Design Challenge

Covering 20,729.8 square meters and approximately 30 kilometers southwest of downtown Xi'an, the site is located and is part of the core of the central innovation district, Silk Road Science City, High-Tech Zone. One significant challenge of this project is a geological fault line that bisects the site, presenting a unique issue in integrating the building's design with this natural division.
Additionally, given its central location adjacent to a cluster of high-rise office buildings, another challenge is to establish a landmark with distinctive 'city skyline imagery' while creating a humanized office environment. This strategy aims to attract talent and empower the technology industry. It also seeks to strengthen urban construction and promote industrial integration. Ultimately, the goal is to rejuvenate and invigorate the new urban district, presenting these as critical aspects of the project's complexity and ambition.

Sustainability

Regarding the social accessibility and sustainability of urban development, Xi'an International Cultural Communication Centre skillfully balances the interplay between man-made structures and natural elements.
This is achieved through a strategic design that includes the recession of public spaces and the terraced form of the buildings. Positioned as the most distinctive block within the high-tech district's urban layout, the center stands out like a catalyst, akin to yeast.
Its features, including twin towers, expansive open lobbies, and a space that blends cleanliness with an avant-garde ambiance, play a pivotal role in driving forward the development of the central innovation district in the Silk Road Science City.
This design approach not only harmonizes cultural and industrial elements but also sets a precedent for thoughtful sustainability urban development.

Architecture - Public and Institutional - International

This award celebrates the design process and product of planning, designing and constructing form, space and ambience that reflect functional, technical, social, and aesthetic considerations. Consideration given for material selection, technology, light and shadow. 
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