ARCHITECTURE
12 Dec 2024
Nestled in the high grass fields of Zhejiang Province, China, HCCH Studio’s Twisted Brick Shell Concept Library emerges as a captivating architectural piece. This concept library is not only a place of learning but also a stunning display of design ingenuity. Spanning a 10-meter diameter and standing 5 meters high, the structure offers a unique blend of contemporary aesthetics with traditional craftsmanship. Made entirely from red bricks, cast in situ, the library’s design challenges conventional building forms, creating a seamless connection between the interior and exterior through its twisting shell shape.
The library’s form is a continuous surface made up of two interconnected semicircles, blurring the lines between the building's inside and outside. The design provides a meditative space where visitors can immerse themselves in both the architecture and the surrounding landscape. Natural light floods the interior through an opening at the top, casting beautiful shadows across the walls and floor. Additionally, small openings allow visitors to interact with text inside acrylic balls, emphasizing the theme of knowledge and connection with nature.
HCCH Studio’s innovative approach to construction is reflected in the precision of the brickwork, which follows a pixelated matrix distribution. By using perforated steel plates as a reinforcement framework, the studio achieved a curvaceous, organic structure that challenges traditional brick masonry methods. The mortar, which is actually high-strength concrete, varies in thickness, enhancing the visual texture of the surface. This combination of digital tools and traditional materials marks a new approach to rural construction, merging the past with the future.
The Twisted Brick Shell Concept Library serves not only as a functional space for reading and reflection but also as an architectural marvel that draws inspiration from the natural environment. It stands as a testament to how modern digital techniques can be applied to vernacular materials to create stunning, forward-thinking structures. Through its design, the library invites visitors to experience the natural beauty of China while fostering a deeper connection between the built and natural worlds.
Tags:
Twisted Brick Shell Library, HCCH Studio, concept library, rural architecture, brick construction, modern design, Zhejiang Province, brick shell, architectural design, traditional materials, digital construction, contemporary architecture