# MVRDV's colorful cultural complex for Shenzhen Dutch studio reinterprets local architecture in stacked 'vertical village' design. - **Source:** [Architecture news and projects | Dezeen](https://brifing.si/source/50c21201-9cc6-48e0-8a7c-6ea605af10c3) - **Published:** 2026-08-06 - **Topic:** [Design & UX](https://brifing.si/c/design) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/2e0b9409-d2c2-4507-8d2f-fff981fbca55 ## Core 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. ## Architectural 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. ## Cultural 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. ## Public 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. ## Regional 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. ## MVRDV'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. ## Construction 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. ## Architectural 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. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.dezeen.com/2026/08/06/mvrdv-bihailou-art-village-shenzhen/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._