FLOATING THEATRE OF GLASS

MAD Architects’ design for the Yiwu Grand Theatre encompasses a 1600 seat grand theatre, medium theatre and international conference centre. The project's protective canopy was made to resonate with the river and use water as its stage. MAD’s design responds to its locale by appearing as a boat floating on the river above the water’s surface.

As MAD explains, Yiwu has established itself internationally for its strong economy, as the world’s largest wholesale commodities market. Domestically, it is traditionally known as a city of trade, thus making it an integral part of the country’s ‘Belt and Road Initiative’. 

While being a hub of growing international commerce, the city decided in 2018 that it would focus on culture to further elevate its soft power and hosted an international competition to design the Yiwu Grand Theatre. MAD Architects, led by Ma Yansong, competed against four other global architecture firms to secure the project. 

The new theatre is defined by a layering of glass sails that are reminiscent of the Chinese junks that once transported goods across the waters, while their curves echo the Jiangnan-style eaves of the ancient vernacular architecture that is typical of the region. The transparency and lightness of the glass express the texture of thin, silky fabric, creating a dynamic rhythm that makes them appear as if they are blowing in the wind. 

To reduce overall energy consumption, MAD formed the theatre with a passive solar design. Thus, the semi-transparent glass curtain wall has been developed to, not only act as a shading system, but to also optimise the use of natural light within the indoor public spaces, forming a solar greenhouse effect in the winter. In the summer, it serves as the ventilation system, enhancing airflow circulation inside and outside of the building.

Envisioned as a public space for the city, the Yiwu Grand Theatre is easily accessed from all directions. Vehicular transportation can enter from the south shore, while tree-lined footbridges from the north offer pedestrians the opportunity to meander along the water and enjoy views of the city, theatre and greater waterfront as they approach the building. 

Emphasising public interaction, the scheme features an amphitheatre and large open plaza that extends into the water on its southern edge, while landscaped terraces offer elevated views of the site’s surroundings, and areas of quiet contemplation – an immersive natural experience in the urban context.

Construction on the ‘Yiwu Grand Theater’ is expected to begin in 2020. 

Via ArchDaily | Images courtesy of MAD Architects