Located in Shanghai, this project is an exhibition space for high-end artworks. These one-of-a-kind pieces have endured time and age. Their value and historical stories fascinate viewers and collectors.
We introduced “Mono-ha” art in the design phase, focusing on material-based anti-formalism to construct the display area. It avoids excessive decoration and uses natural textures like wood, stone and paint to create space, showcasing their natural evolution over time. This approach allows antiques to resonate with the spatial quality, revealing a unique aesthetic and the imprint of time.
The project includes a gallery display area, a business meeting area, an antique warehouse space, and an office area. Initially the site had only one floor with high ceilings, so we partially extended the second floor to utilize the space effectively. The gallery, which is the primary function of the building, is located in the public area on the first floor. In contrast, the relatively private functions, such as business meeting rooms, offices, and storage spaces, are on the second floor.
The second floor is partially set up as a box floating above the gallery, creating various functional spaces of different heights and depths. Although it is a simple block treatment, we successfully reconstructed the gallery from a monotonous first floor into a three-dimensional exhibition space with a sense of depth.
The gallery features antiques from China and other Asian countries, so we carefully considered the relationship between the interior materials and exhibits. The main materials used for the project include natural paint for the walls, washed flooring, black iron, and Japanese paper. Our aim was to create a sense of continuity between the displayed antiques and the surrounding space. Unlike the mass-produced artificial materials of recent years, these natural materials are eco-friendly and have long been utilized traditionally in Asia. They are durable, resistant to damage, and adaptable to their environment. We aim to design an exhibition hall where visitors can appreciate both the antiques and the evolving space over time.
Natural light, a dynamic element that changes over time, has a significant impact on the ambience of the space. A skylight positioned above the gallery bathes the entire area in ever-changing natural light. A white cubic form seems to float within the space, acting as a reflector for the overhead light, allowing the light to penetrate deeply. Unlike conventional exhibition spaces with static artificial lighting, our aim was to create an environment where natural light guides a constantly evolving exhibition. The interplay of light and shadow creates a shifting palette throughout the space, transforming the appearance of exhibits instantly. The selection of materials with distinctive textures further enhances this ever-changing continuity across the entire space.
