Studio Zhu-Pei architects have built a Performing Arts center with an undulating roof in the Chinese city of Dali.

Ekaterina Karpukhina

Jin Weiqi

Photo: Jin Weiqi

The city of Dali is located between the Kan mountain range, towering at 4000 m, and the 40-kilometer Erhai Lake, so the landscape played an important role in this project. The building has a rectangular roof that covers mountain views from all sides and forms a platform for outdoor performances.

Photo: Jin Weiqi

The staircase leading to the roof turns into steps for viewing performances, and the structure, covered with wooden slats, resembles a nest that protects from wind and sun. The canopy also has built-in skylights that allow the rays of the sun to penetrate both the stage and the concrete area.

Photo: Jin Weiqi

There are several towers on the territory of the center, similar to tree houses. They pass through the canopy and connect the lower level with the observation deck on the roof. They have a cafe and a local teahouse. And the rehearsal halls and service rooms were even better hidden — they were located on the basement level, under several hills covered with lawn.

Photo: Jin Weiqi

The building of the center was designed by Studio Zhu-Pei architects by order of a local professional dancer Yang Liping.

Photo: Jin Weiqi

Photo: Jin Weiqi

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