Nanchang Grand Theather,
design: PES-Architects
The Nanchang Grand Theater, designed by PES-Architects with offices in Helsinki and Shanghai, features ceramic facades that reference local traditions. The building covers an area of 45,000 m² and is located on Jiulong Lake.
Nanchang Grand Theater - view of the facade structure
photo by Virgile Bertrand © PES-Architects
cultural transformation
Nanchang West New Town
PES-Architects won the international competition to design the theater in January 2021, and construction began in June of the same year. The facility was designed to enrich Nanchang's cultural offerings, especially in the modern West New Town district.
Nanchang Grand Theater - longitudinal cross section
© PES-Architects
dialogue with local heritage
in the details of the ceramic facade
The body of the theater resembles a horizontal, irregular cuboid. The facades consist of ceramic fins in a shade of white, referring to Chinese rice porcelain, a characteristic of the region. The building's curtain wall, reminiscent of a pixelated mosaic, acts as a shield against excessive sunlight, while providing visibility to the interior. Inside, contrasting materials are used - the foyer and main auditoriums are finished with UV-resistant bamboo, and the floors are made of natural stone.
Nanchang Grand Theater - view of the building's walkway
photo by Virgile Bertrand © PES-Architects
modern interpretation
of a traditional chinese village
The building project was realized on a plot of land with an irregular shape, resembling a trapezoid. The main spaces, such as the opera hall, a multi-purpose hall, and educational and exhibition spaces, were separated into three separate blocks, which were covered by a common canopy. This layout created a network of streets and plazas, allowing free movement of people both inside and around the building. The concept is inspired by a traditional Chinese village.
Nanchang Grand Theater - first floor plan
© PES-Architects
functional interiors
for various events
The 1,600-seat theater hall is designed in a horseshoe-shaped layout with two balconies, and the interior's undulating forms reference the shape of the shores of Jiulong Lake while providing high acoustics. The 450-seat multi-purpose hall, which can be used for a variety of events, is a flexible space that supports the local arts scene and cultural education.
Nanchang Grand Theater - view of the theater hall
photo by Yuhao Ding © PES-Architects
integration with urban space
The building has been integrated into its surroundings, providing convenient access from the street, the lakeside park and the nearby shopping district. A central, naturally lit walkway leads visitors inside, while the main entrance on the south side leads to the plaza. Once the adjacent office and retail complex is completed, the entire space is expected to form a cohesive network of functions, buildings, plazas and green spaces.
The Grand Theater in the Nanchang West New Town district
photo by Virgile Bertrand © PES-Architects
sustainable development
and energy efficiency
The theater in Nanchang was designed in accordance with sustainable development principles. A façade of ceramic fins reduces cooling requirements, supporting the building's energy efficiency. Installed solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems allow for water reuse. The design uses natural materials with high durability and minimal maintenance, emphasizing care for the environment. With thoughtful design and functionality, the theater is a long-lasting cultural facility.
Nanchang Grand Theater - bird's eye view
photo by Yuhao Ding © PES-Architects
The design of the Nanchang Grand Theater is an example of architecture that combines traditional elements with modern form to create a space that is open, functional and adapted to modern needs.
Elaborated: Anastazja Dżupina
Illustrations provided courtesy of PES-Architects.
