MAD Architects Reveals Futuristic Design for Aranya Cloud Center

The renowned MAD architects, led by Ma Yansong, have recently unveiled their newest design, the Aranya “Cloud Center” in Qinhuangdao, China. The building is located close to the beautiful Beidaihe coastline, and it is designed to give the impression of a floating cloud by the sea. The project is set to be a multi-purpose public space for Aranya, one of China’s most vibrant seaside arts and culture communities.

The building’s external structure is surrounded by a beautifully sculpted landscape that resembles a “white stone garden.” The structure's façade is made of hyperbolic white stained glass, which creates a floating form when viewed from a distance. The reflective form of the building changes with the sky, landscape, and light, giving the impression of a cloud floating in the forest.

Upon approaching the building, the winding entry road opens up, and the cloud-like form of the structure becomes visible. The building's entrance has a pool that reflects both the building and the clouds above, blurring the boundary between architecture and nature. The interior and exterior spaces are seamlessly blended, creating a harmonious transition that is not only visually appealing but also energy efficient.

The building is designed to host a variety of functions, such as a press conference room, small theatre, and exhibition space. The structure's internal space, the multi-purpose room, extends skyward through a swirling ceiling. The ceiling's design is breathtaking and adds to the building's energy efficiency, as a series of skylights allows ample natural light to enter the interior.

One of the most striking aspects of the Cloud Center is its structural overhangs. The largest of these overhangs measures 30 meters in length and creates the illusion that the building is floating above the predominately glazed ground floor. The cloud's massing is balanced and suspended from the building’s central core, which provides support for the entire structure and makes its column-free interior space possible.

The building's exterior is surrounded by a low circular wall that forms the boundary of a tranquil landscape. The cosmic theme continues in the garden, where a series of white rocks and undulating greenery evoke the imagery of floating planets dotted across the universe. The building's open spaces and movable walls offer a high degree of spatial flexibility to meet the needs of exhibitions, theatrical performances, conferences, and a variety of other functions.

Construction of the Cloud Center began in March 2021. The project’s civil construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2021, with the entire project completed and opened in 2022. The Cloud Center is set to become one of the most iconic architectural structures in China, offering a beautiful and unique space for cultural events and artistic performances. It is another example of the innovative and groundbreaking designs that have become a hallmark of MAD architects.a