XISUI Design has designed a thin-shell metal woven pavilion in Hefei City, Anhui Province, China. Situated over a pool, it serves as a resting place offering shelter from wind and sun, while still inviting natural light to penetrate its interior.
This pavilion introduces a novel approach to digital metal construction. Its segmented metal shell is inspired by the bionic weaving appearance of birds’ nests, and the structural principles of arched force transmission found in eggshells, which the team has studied in depth. The design features an integrated ultra-thin shell and a centripetal dome, aimed at fostering a pure and serene experience that promotes inner contemplation and peace.
Spanning 11 meters over water, the pavilion is constructed utilising minimal materials and manual labour to generate a unique architectural space. The project explores new possibilities in design, engineering, and fabrication through continuous computational testing with interdisciplinary teams.
Here are 4 key reasons why this project shatters the traditional norms of design
1. INTEGRATED STRUCTURAL SKIN – THE SHELL WORKS AS A STRUCTURE
Typically, a pavilion with an 11x8 meter span requires a substantial supporting framework. This project challenges that convention with a keelfree design, realised through a doubly curved structure that uses only a thin shell surface for load-bearing.
Wind and gravity load calculations showed that just 2 layers of 2.5 mm thick metal plate segments were sufficient to achieve a span 4,400 times their thickness. As an effective structural form, the shell efficiently distributes loads, using principles similar to ancient vaulted buildings and natural bird eggshells. This design ensures both stability and efficiency, minimising material usage while maintaining the pavilion’s aesthetic integrity and elegance.
2. EASY-TO-BUILD DIGITAL CONSTRUCTION
هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة September 2024 من Architect and Interiors India.
ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.
بالفعل مشترك ? تسجيل الدخول
هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة September 2024 من Architect and Interiors India.
ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.
بالفعل مشترك? تسجيل الدخول
DESIGN DEBATE NEW IDEAS SET SAIL IN SCENIC GOA
Replete with Portuguese vibes and picturesque sites, the October Edition of the Design Debate held in Goa was an exceptionally intriguing one.
FENESTRATION FOR VILLAS
In contemporary villa architecture, the use of new-age materials in windows and fenestration is driven by the need for durability, sustainability, and sleek design.
BOLD AND ARTISTIC
Bengaluru’s Reservoire introduces a fresh narrative to the city’s social landscape, where art, nature, and architecture converge seamlessly.
CITY LIGHTS
Timeless design shapes contemporary comfort in this Mumbai home designed by Open Atelier.
STANDING TALL
High rises and tall structures are ruling urban landscapes even as they make the case for urban growth, sustainability, and enhancing economic and cultural vitality in cities.
TRANSFORMING COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPES
Deepu Shyam Prakash, Founder of Aedium Design, discusses the future of commercial spaces in India, blending sustainability, technology, and user-centric design.
GATHERING OF ARTISTS IN THE "CITY OF ART"
The 34th edition of Design Debate in the city of Vadodara was a grand success
AN ECHO OF DESIGN AND AESTHETICS IN THE CAPITAL
Design Debate's 33rd edition made quite a splash in Delhi
THE VERSATILITY OF VENEERS
Veneers are taking giant strides as they look beyond floors to be used in wall panels, cabinetry, furniture and even ceiling applications.
LET THERE BE LIGHT
Architects are increasingly opting for integrated lighting systems that offer versatility and precision and lighting companies are getting into the groove as they do this and more.