Tianjin Binhai Cultural Center and Museum

With the Tianjin Binhai Cultural Center, Binhai—the new quarter in Tianjin—has received a new cultural center. The special task of this project was gmp’s masterplan for this cultural quarter; its museums, theater, and events buildings were designed by various international architects' practices. The cultural institutions are connected by a “cultural concourse” that is covered by a series of inverted umbrella-like structures. The masterplan defines uniform building lines and eaves heights, as well as the depth of the individual buildings. The museum, exhibition, and event buildings are placed on both sides of the main axis that runs from north to south. The cultural concourse is roofed over by an umbrella-like construction with 30-meter-high steel columns. This lofty construction provides the Cultural Center with its own unique architectural feature whilst allowing the style of each of the different cultural buildings to shine. Visitors can stroll along the concourse on two levels: the upper level connects the different cultural buildings and, at street level, shops and eateries round off the available services. In addition, gmp designed the Museum for Modern Art. A cladding of light-colored natural stone panels has been used on the facade of this cube-shaped art museum. With its open layout and mobile wall elements, the museum provides a flexible stage for the art.