red and white geometric sports complex emerges along daixi's riverfront

"The project is structured around the concept of 'Abstract Landscape,' drawing from principles in Chinese landscape painting that prioritize spiritual interpretation over literal representation. Rather than replicating historical forms, the design translates landscape qualities into geometric compositions and spatial sequences. Abstract volumes reference the condition of distant mountains and nearby waters, while controlled color contrasts establish a clear visual framework."

"Located in Daixi Town, Wuxing District, Huzhou, the Daixi Culture, Sports and Commercial Complex by Minax Architects addresses the loss of local identity caused by rapid urban modernization. Positioned between the Tianmu Mountains and Taihu Lake, the town historically embodied the spatial qualities of both mountainous and waterside landscapes. However, recent urban upgrades lacked distinctive cultural references and adequate public facilities."

"The sports complex unfolds along both sides of the river. The commercial center occupies the west bank, while the culture and sports center is located on the east bank. These two components are connected by the Qushui Pedestrian Corridor, a curved circulation element that functions as both infrastructural link and spatial installation. The corridor establishes continuity across the river while organizing views and pedestrian movement."

The Daixi Cultural Sports Complex in Huzhou addresses identity loss from rapid urban modernization by creating a comprehensive public building on a centrally located site divided by a north-south river with a preserved Qing Dynasty stone bridge. The design employs 'Abstract Landscape' concepts from Chinese landscape painting, translating spiritual interpretation into geometric compositions rather than literal historical replication. The complex comprises a commercial center on the west bank and culture and sports center on the east bank, connected by the Qushui Pedestrian Corridor. Abstract volumes reference distant mountains and nearby waters through controlled color contrasts, establishing visual clarity while organizing pedestrian movement and views across the river.

Read at designboom | architecture & design magazine