The ‘Harbin Opera House by architecture studio MAD Architects is an exceptional work of art, a dynamic yet sinuous composition overlooking the Songhua River in the Chinese city of Harbin. Its curvaceous shape manages to create an overwhelming experience, a journey culminating into a perfectly proportioned curved wooden main concert hall, an explosion of purity of form and materials used.
“The Harbin Opera House was designed in response to the force and spirit of the northern city’s untamed wilderness and frigid climate. Appearing as if sculpted by wind and water, the building seamlessly blends in with nature and the topography—a transfusion of local identity, art, and culture.”
Such an organic shape deserved modern techniques and materials with a bent skylight mimicking the bends and twists of the main body.
Purity of form overwhelms anyone as well as the juxtaposing of cold and warm materials.
A high attention to small details has been given, the unity of the material that bends to the desired form is exquisite.
Light plays a vital role and acts as an important part of this incredible spectacle.
The entire journey through the building itself is a spectacle. Take a look at this majestic staircase transformed into a work of art.
The elegance of the organic shape can be sensed in the overall plan as well.
Photo Courtesy © Hufton+Crow / Adam Mørk
