Work has started on Mecanoo’s first design to be built in China. The Three Cultural Centers & One Book Mall complex comprises of a public art museum, a science museum, a youth centre, a book mall with 5 floors, retail units and underground parking facilities. 

The 95.000m2 development promises to transform Longcheng Park in Shenzhen’s Longgang district into a lively destination point that strengthens the quarter’s identity and provides citizens and visitors with a renewed sense of placeBy 2017, the landmark complex will form a dynamic link between the commercial business district, a formal park and gardens, and one of the district’s main thoroughfares.

The four building volumes of Three Cultural Centers & One Book Mall emerge from the ground to create a series of arches and sheltered public event spaces. Rounded shapes respect the natural flow of pedestrians through the site. Strategically located on the ground floor, the cultural centres open outwards into the exterior public space, literally absorbing the city in the exhibition.

By linking cultural and commercial programmes, the new complex will unify the evolving urban fabric and generate a vibrant downtown for the district. Mecanoo was appointed architect for both the complex and 4 hectares exterior space after winning an international competition in 2011. The complex is due for completion in 2017.