Old wooden bridge over a river with a modern building in the background, surrounded by trees.

A serene landscape featuring an old wooden bridge over a calm river, with a modern architectural structure in the background. The scene is surrounded by trees and natural vegetation.

Story

A harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary architecture

Nestled in the historical landscape of Deqing County, Zhejiang Province, the Porcelain Source Museum stands as a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Designed by Atelier Deshaus, the museum is strategically located on the former site of Longsheng Village, integrating the remnants of ancient porcelain kilns and the serene flow of a nearby river into its architectural narrative.

The museum's design is a masterful juxtaposition of traditional Chinese architectural elements and modern design principles. Its main structure extends along the riverbank, presenting a rectilinear yet organically fluid form. The use of slender columns and a roof inspired by Xieshan or Wudian typologies creates a visual dialogue between the past and the present.

Within the museum, the spatial experience is enriched by the incorporation of the Yuan-dynasty Wukang Shishe Bridge and the surrounding natural elements. The building's low eaves harmonize with the preserved village dwellings, establishing a cohesive relationship between the museum's large-scale public spaces and the intimate residential fabric.

The museum's landscape-based architectural approach further enhances its connection to the site. By embedding portions of the structure into the terrain and introducing courtyards for natural light and ventilation, the design maintains a seamless integration with the surrounding environment. One courtyard reconstructs a traditional two-courtyard dwelling, while another employs contemporary steel plate construction, offering visitors a diverse spatial experience.

  • Integration of historical village elements into the museum's design

  • Use of traditional Chinese architectural forms with contemporary materials

  • Strategic positioning along the riverbank with a curvilinear roof

  • Open-air theater on the roof incorporating natural surroundings

  • Landscape-based design with courtyards for natural light and ventilation

Feature Description
Location Deqing County, Zhejiang Province, China
Architect Atelier Deshaus
Primary Materials Steel, concrete, glass
Key Design Element Curvilinear roof and integration with landscape
Historical Context Incorporation of Yuan-dynasty bridge and village site

Technical Summary

Finishes

  • Roof: Curvilinear roof form carrying references to Xieshan or Wudian typologies.

Materials

  • Glass — Facade
  • Steel — Courtyard construction

Construction / Systems

  • Structural system: Curvilinear structural systems with slender columns.

Products

  • Not specified

Palette / Lighting

  • Colors: white, dark
  • Lighting: Natural daylight and ventilation through courtyards.

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