The ZGC International Innovation Center opens in Beijing

 

The ZGC International Innovation Center has been unveiled in Beijing. This futuristic building is now the permanent home of the Zhongguancun Forum, an international innovation and technology conference held each year in the Zhongguancun area of the Haidian district. A place where nature, technology, modernity, and history meet, the area is close to iconic places such as Yuquan Mountain, the Summer Palace, and the Yuanmingyuan Garden. It’s also not far from prestigious institutions such as Beijing and Tsinghua Universities.

First held in 2007, the ZBC Forum focuses on innovation and development. With time, the event has established itself as a leading global platform for discussing the future of high-tech innovation. The new center has already hosted the 15th edition of the forum, which took place April 25–29, 2024.

 

ZGC International Innovation Center: futuristic nature

Designed by MAD Architects, the ZGC International Innovation Center establishes a deep connection between people and the natural and urban environments. The trees, gardens, walkways, and architectural features that make up its accessible green roof establish a dialogue with the surrounding hills, camouflaging the center among the mountains.

At a height of 12 m, the roof of this clover-shaped building has soft, fluid lines. Generous cantilevers create shady spaces that encourage social interaction and improve the relationship between people and the architecture. The transparent façade curtain wall follows the organic curves of the structure, with these large glazed areas blurring the boundary between inside and out.

 

An open environment flooded with natural light

The interior features clean, simple lines to create an open environment to encourage interaction and the exchange of ideas. Two large ETFE membrane skylights allow natural light to enter the interiors. The lighting design includes fixtures with adjustable color temperatures. These follow the curves of the building, converging on a central luminary sculpture, creating a futuristic atmosphere.

Arranged in a zigzag pattern on the first floor are the main auditorium, a reception area, and the multi-function hall. At basement level, there are smaller meeting rooms and VIP lounges to suit different operational and privacy needs.

 

Sustainable functionality

The roof comprises 2769 fluorocarbon-coated honeycomb aluminum panels arranged to facilitate rainwater collection. Lightweight soils and low-maintenance plantings were used for the roof garden. The center uses renewable energy sources, including photovoltaic systems and ground-source heat pumps. These design strategies make the building energy efficient, reducing carbon emissions by over 50% compared to the surrounding public buildings.

 

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