“To work on architecture for culture and health is a social commitment during these challenging times,” states Steven Holl. His proposal for a new Cultural and Health Center in Shanghai has just received approval. Comprising two buildings set in a public landscape, the project is intended to bring a cluster of new housing blocks together.
Inspired by Karl Popper’s 1965 lecture on the evolutionary model of free will entitled, “Of Clouds and Clocks,” the landscape design is “organized in large clock-like circles forming a central public space, the buildings are cloud-like in their porosity and openness inviting the public in.”
The Cultural Center will be constructed in white concrete and set on a base of transparent glass, containing a cafe and recreation rooms. A curved ramp provides look-outs. The adjacent Health Center, also made of white concrete, is intended to fit into the curving landscape. This structure will house a health and education center, a pharmacy, examination rooms, and a nurse area. Both buildings will have green sedum roofs.
See the gallery below for more images, plans and sections.
13 Comments
Wow! He's def one of the best...
Holl is doing some great work lately.
Mr. Holl i love your work but if you don't do an emergency shelter and social housing in the next 5 years you're never going to get that Pritzker.
The Last Architect
Don't you mean a last century's architect?
No, the Last Architect.
agree with Chemex - everyone else is busy trying to be some sort of social justice warrior through architecture. would like to see the profession swing back this way.
Hah, 'Clock Dock'
Really, though, this is beautiful. Holl was a tough sell for me when I was younger but he's really won me over lately.
Chemex / archanonymous: I don't see why both goals can't exist in parallel.
Holly smokes, I've never seen a building with holls in it!
Quondam, do you do lots of stretching? You either have your head up your ass or are giving yourself a combination reach-around / pat on the back every time you post.
Who do you think I am, Steve? I'm certain you're wrong, as I haven't been in your state for years.
Play nice, children.
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