Architects: Chengdu Wide Horizon Investment Group
Area: 6,450 m²
Year: 2016
Photography: Courtesy of Chengdu Wide Horizon Investment Group
City: Chengdu
Country: China
The Equestrian Center in Luxelakes Eco-City, designed by Chengdu Wide Horizon Investment Group, blends traditional building techniques with large-scale modern materials. Completed in 2016, the center features a tensile membrane structure that enhances the architectural experience for visitors, particularly children. The design emphasizes interaction with nature, offering a playful and educational environment where guests can explore the connection between the built and natural worlds.
In the design of the equestrian stable, two key elements—traditional craftsmanship and natural materials—were combined with the tensile membrane to create a unique structure. The challenge of working with bricks led to the inclusion of a structural framework to address the limitations of traditional brick construction. Special treatment was applied to the beams and eaves, producing a hollowed-out effect that gives the building its distinctive look.
A lightweight industrial tensile membrane was employed to cover the horse racecourse, spanning 45 meters. Suspension link rings and umbrella-shaped pillars form the core of the membrane structure for the playground and racecourse. This design approach was based on the structural solution of tensioned membranes.
A hidden children’s playground, called the animal labyrinth, was created next to the stable. Making use of the height difference between the road and the stable, the labyrinth was designed as a whimsical, Hobbit-like animal farm, adding an element of fun and discovery.
Luxes’ school, adjacent to the stable, offers three distinct interfaces: one facing the waterfront, another towards the street, and the third towards the playground. These interfaces are designed with variation but remain unified in their purpose. The building is almost invisible from the road, with only the steel structure, bamboo, and the Luxe logo in view, giving the impression of a hidden space that invites exploration.
Across the yard, a ramp leads down to the interior of the school. This creates a playful environment where children can run and hide, with natural grass surrounding the entrance and a large opening leading towards the water. This design uses minimal architectural elements, relying on the simplicity of the landscape to encourage children to explore the area.
The side facing the playground features a curved form to enhance the connection with the play space. It resembles a cave, where children can rest after playing, further integrating the building with its natural surroundings.
The three interfaces offer children diverse experiences. The designers envision Luxe’s school as a safe, peaceful place, like a warm cave where children can learn about nature and explore their world in a playful, nurturing environment.
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Project Location
Address: 962 Xindu District, Chengdu, Sichuan 610503, China
Location is for general reference and may represent a city or country, not necessarily a precise address.
