Spanning 540,000 square feet the recently completed by Pelli Clarke & Partners Chengdu Museum of Natural History is a cultural landmark for the Chinese city, reflecting its fast rise as a hub for science and technology. The building, in fact, integrates advanced software, which ensures energy efficiency.

The sculptural volume draws inspiration from the Sichuan mountain’s profile, shaped by the tectonic plates that characterize the region. The building seems to emerge from the ground, revealing public spaces, shops, a cafe, a cinema, and educational services. Each artificial “mountain” houses a distinct exhibition space. In addition, the selection of materials also reflects the same concept linked to the landscape, with the facade clad in local granite.

The organic volume presents perforations that during the day make the mass of the building resemble that of a mountain chain covered with snow, while at night the LED backlight reminds a starry sky.