The Lotus Exhibition Center is an icon for the city of Wujin. Conceived as an addition to an existing underground building with a lake top, the center is a sculptural and ethereal lotus flower displaying the three stages of the lotus bloom life. The lake and entire park were upgraded by studio505, and the project is a stunning sculptural centerpiece experienced in the round from the new garden.
Entrance to the project is from the existing building beneath the lake, and the entrance into the central flower pod interior is a revelation of space, cathedral-like and immensely uplifting. Hand laid and varied white, sand, and stainless steel hexagon mosaic finishes extend throughout—to ceilings, stairs, escalators, and structure—merging seamlessly at the apex of the remarkable volumes skin with the 8-meter-high chandelier feature.
The Public Gallery levels provide detailed and entertaining stories for all ages of visitors, with models and the history of the region of Wujin, including displays of the future progress planned by government. The private meeting spaces and conference rooms are connected to the outside world through continuous windows, whilst having a futuristic and elegant setting for meetings and debates at the highest levels of government.
The Lotus is an intensely sensual and feminine blending of sculptural and biological form with coherent architectural planning, a rarity in a world of heavy, historically influenced government buildings. This project has become one of the most popular icons of Wujin in the short period of time since it has been completed, with its nighttime light show and refurbished park spaces creating a destination for locals and visitors alike.