Renovation of Sichuan University Museum by CSWADI – A Landmark Cultural Transformation in Chengdu

The Renovation and Expansion of Sichuan University Museum by CSWADI is a monumental project in Chengdu, China, revitalizing the country’s oldest university museum in Southwest China. Originally established in 1914 as the Huaxi Union University Antiquities Museum, the building now represents a harmonious blend of historical preservation, contemporary design, and functional expansion. Completed in 2022, the museum spans an impressive 73,414 m², offering visitors a seamless experience of humanities, natural history, and art collections within a modernized architectural framework.

Architectural Concept and Site Context

Situated along the scenic Jinjiang River near the east gate of Sichuan University’s historic campus, the museum’s design respects the southwest-deflected campus axis and grid system. By integrating the new extension with the original structures, CSWADI has maintained the cultural and architectural identity of the site while enhancing its urban presence along the riverfront.

The design includes two main elements:

• Renovated Original Structures: The 20-year-old Humanities Pavilion and Natural History Pavilion, totaling 14,700 m², have been adapted to modern functions. The Natural History Pavilion now houses collection storage due to its low ceilings, while the Humanities Pavilion is spatially restructured to connect with the new extension.
• New Museum Extension: A 20,000 m² addition complements the original structures, while an attached high-rise complex to the north provides 18,700 m² of research and office spaces.

Spatial Layout and Visitor Experience

The expanded museum follows a “one museum, two wings” configuration, connected by a full-height atrium that functions as the central circulation hub. Visitors can explore exhibition levels via escalators from the main lobby or ascend through a landscaped ramp along the riverside, enjoying curated framed views of the Jinjiang River through expansive glass curtain walls.

The exhibition spaces are thoughtfully distributed:

• Basement: Temporary exhibitions, lecture halls, educational zones, and a screening room.
• Levels 1–2: Permanent exhibitions on archaeology, folklore, and ethnic studies.
• Level 3: Natural history collections.
• Level 4: Art galleries featuring a century of Sichuan University’s art collections, enhanced by a dramatic pitched-roof volume for a ceremonial experience.

Architectural Details and Materials

The museum’s architecture draws inspiration from the historical vocabulary of Sichuan University, featuring projecting eaves, blue brickwork, and Xieshan-style pitched roofs. A prominent design highlight is the Light Wall, a permeable brick screen supported by stainless steel tension rods and ceramic tiles, which creates a luminous and textured façade.

Titanium-zinc panels replace traditional tiles for modern performance, while aluminum tube sunshades and semi-transparent curtains control natural light in gallery spaces. The redesigned roof of the original pavilion now hosts a green rooftop café and terrace, offering panoramic views of the Jinjiang River and the surrounding urban landscape.

Landscape Integration and Urban Role

The renovation project extends beyond architecture, actively revitalizing the surrounding riverfront public space, making the museum a cultural and urban landmark along the Jinjiang River corridor. Courtyards, ramps, and landscaped paths create smooth transitions between interior exhibition spaces and outdoor public areas.

Cultural and Academic Significance

The museum’s program reflects Sichuan University’s academic leadership in humanities, natural sciences, and arts. Through innovative design, the expansion ensures that the museum serves as a platform for research, cultural preservation, and public engagement, solidifying its role as a key cultural node in Chengdu.

The Renovation of Sichuan University Museum by CSWADI is a masterful balance between heritage conservation and contemporary design. By merging old and new architectural languages, the project not only restores the historic significance of the museum but also redefines its future as a vibrant cultural landmark in Southwest China.

All Photographs are works of Ting Wang, Zhen Xin, Yang Zhang