The New Art Centre In Shanghai Has A Facade Made Of Bronze Tubes

A new development was added to Shanghai, China. It sits between the old town and the new financial district and it stands out no matter from where you look at it. One of the most prominent structures is the arts and culture center which is placed at the heart of the development. Its design was a collaboration between Heatherwick Studio and Foster+Partners.

Bunds Finance Centre has a facade made of bronze pipes
The project involves a variety of spaces and structures, each with its own set of functions
Bunds Finance Centre has a facade made of bronze pipes
The arts and culture centre is completed, being one of the most important elements in the development

The whole development covers 420,000 square meters of space and includes, in addition to the art center, two 180 meter high towers, a boutique hotel and a variety of luxury retail spaces. The goal was to design and build a multifunctional complex which can incorporate a variety of spaces and functions. It was designed to accommodate exhibition spaces, event spaces as well as a performance venue which the architects say was inspired by the open stages of traditional Chinese theaters.

Bunds Finance Centre has a facade made of bronze pipes
The arts centre sits at the heart of the development, framed by the other structures and by a plaza
Bunds Finance Centre has a facade made of bronze pipes
The design of the building is very artistic, meant to reflect its function and to serve as a new landmark

The two towers were designed to incorporate office spaces as well as a boutique hotel. The art center is structured on three levels and includes a variety of gathering spaces, galleries and exhibition areas, including one on the roof. Its design is eye-catching and unique. The architects wanted to distance themselves from China’s tendency to copy designs from around the world and wanted instead to inspire a desire for uniqueness.

Bunds Finance Centre has a facade made of bronze pipes
The facade of the building looks like a layering of veils or curtains, having a fluid design
Bunds Finance Centre has a facade made of bronze pipes
The cultural centre is only a part of the development which will also include two towers
Bunds Finance Centre has a facade made of bronze pipes
The ground floor of the structure is a large open space. It can be used for events and presentations

The building’s facade is designed to resemble a moving veil or a set of curtains which wrap around the structure. It adapts to the changing use of the building spaces and it frames the views in interesting ways. The facade is built as a series of bronze tubes arranged in a parallel pattern, in several overlapping layers.

Bunds Finance Centre has a facade made of bronze pipes
The ripping facade gives the building a dainty look while the materials used suggest strength
Bunds Finance Centre has a facade made of bronze pipes
The roof of the building can also be used as an event venue

The project started in 2013 and, after four years of development, the centre is now complete. It became a new landmark for the city thanks to its position as well as its striking look which contrasts with the 19th century neighboring buildings. The architects made sure to also allow it to blend in so they maintained the same proportions and height in relation to the existing structures.

Bunds Finance Centre has a facade made of bronze pipes
The undulating facade gently wraps around the building, framing the spaces and the views
Bunds Finance Centre has a facade made of bronze pipes
The facade is made of parallel bronze tubes cut at different heights and angles