Sculptural Symphony: Unveiling the Design Language of Jinghe New City’s Cultural Sanctuary

Published: 13 March 2024

Rising from the heart of China’s Shaanxi province, the Jinghe New City Culture & Art Centre, designed by the renowned Zaha Hadid Architects, promises to be a captivating architectural masterpiece. Its design transcends the realm of mere functionality, weaving a narrative of nature, community, and innovation into its very fabric.

The building’s most striking feature of the Jinghe New City Culture & Art Centre is its expressive, curvilinear form. Inspired by the meandering valleys sculpted by the Jinghe River, the structure rejects rigid lines in favour of flowing, organic shapes. This aesthetic choice isn’t merely symbolic; it creates a harmonious dialogue with the surrounding landscape, blurring the lines between the built environment and the natural world. The building appears to dance with the topography, seamlessly integrating with the existing parkland and revitalizing the urban fabric.


The Jinghe New City Culture & Art Centre designed by the Zaha Hadid Architects

Humanity at the Centre

At its core, the Jinghe New City Culture & Art Centre isn’t just a spectacle, it’s a space designed for people. Accessibility and inclusivity are woven into the very foundation of the design. Gently sloping ramps provide a welcoming and dignified entry point for all visitors, regardless of their physical abilities. This philosophy extends throughout the interior, where seamless transitions between different functions and public spaces foster a sense of connectivity and community.


The Jinghe New City Culture & Art Centre designed by the Zaha Hadid Architects

The multimedia library, a vibrant hub for learning and exploration, sits in close proximity to the flexible performing arts theatre, allowing for a dynamic exchange between education and entertainment. Multifunctional halls offer versatile spaces for a diverse range of cultural events, further enriching the experience for the community.

Courtyard spaces act as the lungs of the building, offering pockets of tranquility amidst the vibrant activity. These open-air havens, bathed in natural light, provide a platform for outdoor performances, social gatherings, and artistic installations. The centre aims to become a cultural oasis, a place where people can come together, engage with the arts, and celebrate the spirit of creativity.


The Jinghe New City Culture & Art Centre designed by the Zaha Hadid Architects

Embracing the Challenge

Building a structure of such audacious design and ambitious vision naturally presents its share of challenges. The curvilinear roof structure, spanning a bustling eight-lane highway, demands cutting-edge engineering solutions. Structural integrity and efficient construction techniques must work hand-in-hand to bring this visionary design to life.


The Jinghe New City Culture & Art Centre designed by the Zaha Hadid Architects

However, the Jinghe New City Culture & Art Centre aspires to be more than just an architectural marvel. It seeks to become a beacon of sustainability within the burgeoning science and technology hub. The design incorporates passive building strategies to minimize environmental impact, optimising natural light and ventilation. Additionally, the project explores the integration of on-site power generation technologies, further reducing its carbon footprint and setting a precedent for future cultural centres.


The Jinghe New City Culture & Art Centre designed by the Zaha Hadid Architects