MVRDV's colorful cultural complex for Shenzhen
Dutch studio reinterprets local architecture in stacked 'vertical village' design.
1Core concept
Dutch architecture studio MVRDV has designed the 6,500-square-meter Bihailou Art Village in Shenzhen's Shatoujiao neighborhood near the Hong Kong border. Conceptualized as a 'vertical village', the project draws inspiration from the colors, shapes, and materials of surrounding homes. Studio co-founder Winy Maas describes the design as finding 'joy in its contradictions', blending complexity with functional simplicity.
2Architectural details
Rather than a single large volume, the complex consists of individual 'houses' tailored to specific functions. Each block has its own entrance, connected via external staircases, escalators, and ramps. This allows each space to operate independently with custom opening hours. The design combines boxy, rounded, and pitched volumes finished with varied cladding materials, creating visual diversity while maintaining cohesion.
3Cultural spaces
The standout feature is a double-height theater space overlooking a plaza through floor-to-ceiling openings. Retractable seating enables transformation into an exhibition hall. Smaller blocks accommodate retail and dining spaces. The complex's stacked arrangement creates dynamic interior volumes while maintaining human scale at street level through carefully considered overhangs and terraces.
4Public accessibility
The design emphasizes civic generosity with permanently accessible public spaces. A landscaped ground-level plaza connects to 'freely accessible' roof terraces via the external circulation network. The stacked form creates natural shelters from sun and rain, enhancing usability. This commitment to public access reflects contemporary thinking about cultural infrastructure's role in urban life.
5Regional context
MVRDV's design remixes architectural elements from the site's former restaurant and surrounding buildings. While appearing innovative at first glance, Maas describes it as 'essentially a remix of the surrounding village'. This approach creates contextual harmony while allowing contemporary expression. The color palette and material choices directly reference the neighborhood's existing character.
6MVRDV's portfolio
The studio recently won a competition to design a 'new world wonder' in Rotterdam. Their Beijing project wrapped a flagship store in traditional roof tiles, while Eindhoven saw a 'polite yet radical' housing block with angular roofs. These projects demonstrate MVRDV's interest in spatial experimentation and innovative use of local materials, consistently pushing architectural boundaries.
7Construction progress
Currently under construction, Bihailou Art Village will significantly contribute to Shenzhen's cultural infrastructure upon completion. Its proximity to Hong Kong may boost regional tourism appeal. The complex is designed to serve both local communities and visitors, with flexible spaces accommodating diverse cultural programming and commercial activities.
8Architectural significance
This project exemplifies MVRDV's approach to architecture that engages urban context while delivering functional diversity. The colorful stacked volumes merge traditional village typology with contemporary interpretation. Emphasis on public access reflects evolving trends in cultural infrastructure design. As a notable addition to Shenzhen's dynamic architectural scene, it demonstrates how innovative design can celebrate local identity while looking forward.