From the architect. In this project, we explored the artistic potentials of a climate responsive design.
Jinchang is the ‘nickel capital’ of China, with the world’s 3rd largest nickel mine. The local climate of Jinchang is the typical in northwest China, that is, dry, cold with ample sunshine. The local mountain features slightly sloped skylines and strong vertical texture.
Our design is inspired both by the climate and by the mountains. The most distinctive feature of the design is the long passage along the main street in the south-west. With its alternating west-facing solid walls and south-facing glazed curtains, the facade is both reminiscent of the local mountain and efficient in utilizing sunshine to heat the inside.