The hidden marvel beneath Xuhui
In the bustling district of Xuhui, Shanghai, Wutopia Lab introduces “The Root,” an underground exhibition hall that reimagines spatial design. This cutting-edge project moves away from the traditional basement concept, transforming it into a vibrant space rich with architectural meaning. It’s paired with “The Seed,” an above-ground structure, to create a cohesive narrative rooted in the exploration of descent and depth.
Architectural narrative of descent
“The Root” is located beneath “The Seed,” turning the journey underground into an integral part of the visitor’s experience. As you enter, you descend through curved passages with warm stone tones, which gradually narrow, drawing your senses inward. This journey mirrors the natural process of germination, emphasizing the hidden growth beneath the soil, and shifting focus from urban life above to a compelling underground realm.
Integration of light and structure
The centerpiece of this underground marvel is a circular skylight, casting daylight onto an expansive room encased by dark basalt walls. The innovative ceiling, crafted from stainless steel to mimic tangled roots, integrates essential systems like lighting and ventilation, transforming functional elements into art. This fusion creates tension and harmony, balancing the engineered oculus with the organic feel of the ceiling design.
Textural and material contrasts
Within the central hall, rough basalt walls encircle the space, imbuing it with geological weight and reinforcing the sense of descending into the earth. Complementing this are the pale, organic terrazzo floors, polished to reflect light. This interplay of dark and light, heavy and delicate, helps maintain a visually dynamic environment, ensuring the space never feels static.
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A new perspective on exhibition design
By eliminating internal columns, “The Root” offers a seamless, uninterrupted view, positioning visitors directly beneath the mesmerizing root ceiling and naturally drawing attention upwards toward the skylight. This architectural approach turns the entire space into an evolving visual canvas, allowing each exhibit displayed to be seen within a strong, self-defining framework.
About the team
Wutopia Lab, led by Chief Architect YU Ting, focuses on crafting narrative-rich environments. Collaborating with structural engineers, the team removed eight pre-existing columns to achieve a column-free space. Supported by Shanghai Yibin Real Estate Co., Ltd., and lighting designed by Gradient Lighting, “The Root” stands as a testament to innovation and the power of thoughtful design.
Photography by LIU Guowei showcases the ambition and precision ingrained in this project.
Source: archeyes.com