Moganshan Liaoyuan Theater: Where Tradition Meets Modernity
The new face of cultural architecture in China's famous summer retreat
1Moganshan's Cultural Heritage
Moganshan is known as one of China's oldest and most famous summer retreats. Thanks to its close cultural and economic ties with Shanghai, the region has become a meeting point of traditional and modern elements. This remote valley in western Zhejiang has developed a unique identity over the years. Recent projects by Deqing Culture and Tourism are further strengthening this identity.
2Design Team and Project Details
Designed by INCLS (One Design), the Moganshan Liaoyuan Theater spans an area of 3,972 square meters. Led by Bing Bu, the design team includes Ye Chen, Qingqing Wang, and Leonardo Citterio. The theater is being built for Deqing County Cultural Tourism Development Group and is scheduled for completion in 2025.
3Architectural Approach and Materials
The project combines Moganshan's traditional architecture with a modern interpretation. The use of local materials and design harmony with the natural environment stand out. Performance spaces are planned with audience experience in mind. Additionally, landscape designs by Ximu Landscape highlight the surrounding natural beauty.
4Touristic Transformation of the Region
Projects completed along Yu Street in Liaoyuan Village are enhancing the area's touristic appeal. State-supported initiatives by Deqing Culture and Tourism aim to transform Moganshan from a summer retreat into a cultural hub. The theater is seen as one of the most important steps in this transformation.
5Structural Collaboration and Teams
SCD (Suzhou) Survey and Design Consulting provided engineering services, while firms like urbaneer and ConCom participated in urban design and planning processes. Zhejiang Dadongwu Group undertook construction, bringing the project to physical realization. This multidisciplinary collaboration plays a critical role in the project's success.
6Architectural Photography and Promotion
Photographs by Yumeng Zhu showcase the theater's architectural details and its harmony with the natural environment. The project has received extensive coverage on international architecture platforms like ArchDaily. Publications in 2026 helped the theater gain recognition in the global architecture community.
7Cultural and Economic Impacts
The completion of Moganshan Liaoyuan Theater is expected to significantly revitalize the region's cultural life. While providing new stage opportunities for local artists, the theater will also become an attractive stop for tourists. This aims to create long-term economic benefits for the area.
8A New Interpretation of Modern Architecture
Designed by INCLS (One Design), this theater serves as an important example of how modern architecture can be implemented in China's rural areas. By interpreting traditional elements in a contemporary language, the project aims to inspire similar regions. Moganshan Liaoyuan Theater holds great significance for preserving cultural heritage and passing it on to future generations.
Original article: ArchDaily Global — Moganshan Liaoyuan Tiyatrosu: Geleneksel ve Modernin Buluşması