Author: CNN
Source: https://www.cnn.com/style/gallery/chengdu-science-fiction-museum-hnk-spc/index.html
Published11:04 PM EDT, Sun October 29, 2023If it looks like a work of science fiction, that's because it is: the new Chengdu Science Fiction Museum in the capital of Sichuan province, in Southwest China, would comfortably fit into the set of an intergalactic space adventure or alien invasion tale.Look through the gallery to see inside the stranger-than-fiction landmark.Arch-ExistThe museum was commissioned in 2022 to host this year's 81st annual World Science Fiction Convention, nicknamed Worldcon.Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, the building went from concept to completion in just 12 months.Arch-ExistThe architects used polygonal modeling software to create the dynamic building shape, a digital tool that creates a 3D simulation of the building.This also allowed the team to simultaneously design and construct the project.Arch-ExistThe building concept connects past, present and future, according to Satoshi Ohashi, one of the project directors.Elements of the design respond to the ancient culture of the Sanxingdui, whose relics have been discovered in the area, and the eye-shaped skylight in the center of the building evokes their traditional bronze masks and sculptures.Arch-ExistThe multimedia "Time Tunnel," which connects visitors from the parking area to the main building, is a standout feature. "It's organized around science fiction, and nurturing that culture," Ohashi added.Arch-ExistThe architects use reflective materials and carefully placed lighting to create a futuristic feel, including mirror-clad hallways, silver-encased escalators, and gently shimmering terrazzo flooring made with recycled broken glass and mirrors.Arch-ExistUsing digital modeling analysis, the team were also able to account for weather and environmental factors, such as the angle of windowpanes or the roof overhang to protect interiors from direct sunlight.Arch-ExistSustainability was a key concern, and the designers focused on making the buildings operations as efficient as possible.The atrium skylight has a special coating on the glass to protect against heat gain from direct sunlight, while reducing the need for artificial light during the day.Arch-ExistThe museum opened in October 2023 to host Worldcon, the first time the event has been hosted in China, and only the second time in Asia."It looks like the future," said Dave McCarty, vice-chair of Chengdu Worldcon and an organizer with the event for two decades.He hopes that the dedicated space will support the growing industry, as well as technological innovation."I think that science fiction is the fuel that feeds the engine that drives progress," he said.Arch-ExistThe opening ceremony, hosted in the Hugo Theater (named after the science fiction writing award, itself an eponym of sci-fi author Hugo Gernsback), revealed a giant glass wall that allowed audiences in the theater to watch a drone LED display taking place outside, said McCarty. "It is the best facility by far that the Worldcon has ever been hosted in," he added.Arch-Exist
