Gehua Youth and Cultural Center / Open Architecture

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Text description provided by the architects. This pioneer youth and cultural center is located in Beidaihe, a seaside town with exceptional historical and cultural significance. The whole building is surrounded by nature, protected from the noises and chaos of the city. The 2,700 sqm's building has various functional requirements: theater, gallery, activity spaces, DIY space, café, book bar, multi-media hall, master studio, VIP room and so on. With the aim of maximizing both the preservation of nature on site and the diversity of spatial qualities, OPEN designed a building which is completely fused with nature. Free flowing indoor spaces fully connect to the outdoor landscape. The same space can assume different functions for different occasions. The central courtyard is not only part of the landscape throughout the year but it is also an extension to the theatre for hosting a much larger crowd watching performances. The roof is covered with green and a variety of suitable outdoor activities, so 100% of the land is effectively used, an important aspect of the camp's operation.