The National Botanical Museum is situated on a crucial spot in Kunming’s city configuration of Grand “Three Mountains, One Lake”. Sloping gradually from north to south, the site enjoys a landscape where multiple valleys converge.
With a common architectural expression, complex functions in a large museum such as exhibitions and greenhouses are unified into a consistent image. The pattern in the wooden structure roof resembles the veins of naturally extending leaves or petals. The gradation from opaqueness to transparency in the roofing not only meets the requirements of internal functions but also gives the building the likeness of a dynamic living body. The mesh roof with crystal-clear texture is like a blooming “water petals” in the natural landscape, creating an iconic fifth elevation.
Other supporting functions such as administrative offices, business operation and research are set in the terrain along on the hillside accordingly. Above these areas is a continuous platform that connects public spaces, exhibitions, lecture halls, popular science sections, greenhouses and other major spaces, each with independent entrance & exit. The outdoor exhibitions themed World Garden is linked by a plant-themed parade to render a story-telling tour. Visitors can also use the outdoor space for various leisure activities, like walking, jogging, sporting, camping, tea drinking, etc.
The sunshade roof with hybrid ventilation stands out as a new eco landmark. After surveying the meteorological data of plant habitats, it was decided to equip the greenhouses with heating systems and small air source heat pumps instead of central air conditioning systems, so as to display the amazing life cycle of plants in the most energy-efficient setting as possible.
After its completion, the brand new National Botanical Museum will become a mine of information and color up the urban life.
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