Architects: DnA
Area: 1000 m²
Year: 2022
Photographs: Ziling Wang, Xiandu Scenic Area
Lead Architect: Tiantian Xu
Lighting Design: X Studio School of Architecture Tsinghua University
Acoustic Design: Yanxiang Tsinghua University Acoustic Lab
Sustainable Engineering: Key Laboratory of Eco Planning & Green Building Tsinghua University
Structural Strengthening Consultant: The Architectural Design & Research Institute of Zhejiang University Co.Ltd.
Construction: Jinhong Construction Co. Ltd, Zhejiang Tunnel Engineering Group Co.LTD
Client: Jinyun County Culture Tourism Development Investment Co. LTD
Safety Consultant: South Zhejiang Comprehensive Engineering Institute Co. Ltd of Investigation and Mapping
City: Lishui
Country: China
Quarry No. 8, an educational and cultural site designed within a historic quarry in China, transforms a natural cave into a layered academic sanctuary. This repurposed space, defined by its terraced layout and cultural significance, offers a unique setting where visitors engage with historical texts and inscriptions. Quarry No. 8 celebrates the integration of cultural heritage with contemporary educational needs.
Quarry No. 8—a unique educational and cultural facility nestled just meters from Quarry No. 9—serves as a profound testament to the heritage of learning. This cavernous space burrowed about 50 meters into the mountain and soaring nearly 40 meters high, was shaped by hand-quarried stone, creating a series of lateral terraces indicative of the imperfect rock formations that halted traditional quarrying. This accidental topography now hosts a serene environment for reading and study.
Adjacent to Quarry No. 8 is a historically significant site where scholars of the past convened to exchange ideas. Here, Han Yu, a poet from the Tang Dynasty, metaphorically described the journey through the ‘Mountain of Knowledge’ (Shushan) as one requiring unwavering diligence. This space holds a special cultural significance as it embodies an educational ideal familiar to every Chinese schoolchild, captured within the walls of the quarry itself.
Within the quarry, stone terraces span five levels up to 12 meters, accessible only by climbing. Terraces are equipped with stairways, bookshelves, and study areas where visitors can delve into the study of stone inscriptions and calligraphy. Symbolizing the metaphorical mountain of knowledge, these tiered galleries culminate at the highest platform, from which a 27-meter-long tunnel connects to Quarry No. 2, extending the journey of discovery.
Project Gallery
Project Location
Address: Xiandu Street, Jinyun County, Lishui City, Zhejiang Province, China
Location is for general reference and may represent a city or country, not necessarily a precise address.
