A result of a mouthful of technical parametric revisions, this origami-esque structure envelopes a substantial volume of space and evolves into the circus pavilion for Dalian Zoo in China. With the location, interior layout and basic form prescribed, reMIX Architects worked under these various restrictions which resulted in the fabrication of this film, which accommodates for the progamme, users of many ages and the overall atmosphere. reMIX focused their energies on the structure of the roof, points of access, and the geometric definition of the interior and exterior shell, which isn’t a lot to design with, given their particular circumstances.
general sections
The result, a bubble, that envelopes a well-defined boundary. Honestly, the structure resembles a breast implant which takes on the delicate aesthetic of what it mimics through the way it portrudes from its context. Sexualizing the product makes it more appealing than it originally was, because parametrically designed pavilions all turn out with a similar overall bland aesthetic. At the end of the day, if it weren’t for the short name and the fact that it was a pavilion, the project would’ve been completely forgettable. Even though space is achieved, a pneumotic less permanent structure could have done the same job with less hassle. For example, Diller SCofidio’s museum bubble, a structure(less) space where programme can be assimilated.
By: Thelma Ndebele
Project Info:
Architects: reMIX Architects
Country: China, Liaoning, Dalian
Project: zoo pavilion
Year: 2012 – 2013
Type: structure-envelope
Size: 5,000 sqm
Client: Dalian Zoo
Partners in charge: Federico Ruberto, Nicola Saladino
Design team: Dong Liu
External collaborator: Dalian UD Institute
Thelma Ndebele is an editor at Arch2O and a part-time lecturer at the University of Johannesburg. With a background in architecture and critical spatial research, Thelma’s academic work explores the intersections of urbanism, cultural identity, and public space. Their editorial contributions reflect a commitment to unpacking the socio-political dimensions of architecture, especially within African urban contexts. Through both teaching and writing, Thelma engages with emerging discourse on inclusive design, making them a thoughtful and vital voice in Arch2O’s academic and editorial landscape.