Suzhou Super Hall
Suzhou’s Super Hall is a landmark on Nobel Lake and serves as a lively education hub within the new Science City. The architectural structure builds upon the Super Forest plan to provide citizens with a space for discovery, idea exchange, and contemplation.
The Hall has two main purposes, education hub and exhibition center. These two functions are closely related but serve different audiences, which divide along the two wings of the building. The Discovery Wing houses the visitor center functions such as the innovation hall, multimedia theatre, and exhibition spaces. The Knowledge Wing functions as a showcase for local talent and visiting resident scientists.
Architecturally, Super Hall grows from the 6 x 6-meter grid module integral to the ‘Super Forest’ planning. This grid structure appears to dissolve into the forest canopy, creating an interplay where the forest seemingly permeates the building. Contemplative landscapes adjoin interior spaces, fostering a pervasive sense of greenery. Soaring columns facilitate natural daylighting, while louvers reflect sunlight and mitigate heat gain. The building’s layout promotes passive ventilation, harnessing summer breezes from the lake and employing conifer plantings to shield against northern winter winds.
This project aligns with the broader Super Forest initiative—a city-wide strategy transforming traditional land-use planning into a climate solution. By integrating complex land-use demands, the Super Forest balances ecological sustainability with economic and developmental needs. High-performance, regionally appropriate tree species are selected to enhance environmental performance while considering cost-effectiveness. Over time, this approach aims to be self-sustaining, improving the environment and contributing to the city’s Super Green Road system, which ensures green amenities are within walking distance for citizens.
LOCATION: Suzhou
TYPE: Architecture
YEAR: 2023
STATUS: Competition
AREA:30,000m²