Wutopia Lab has unveiled its latest architectural masterpiece: “Flickering Peak,” a visionary blend of light and space in Coffee Village, Hainan. This ambitious project interprets the Sun River Art Center as “three mountains and one sea,” a concept loosely borrowed from a classic Taoist tale. The design is inspired by the region’s natural environment and cultural history, resulting in a remarkable convergence of modern architecture and traditional symbolism.
At the heart of the art centre, the main and annex buildings are clad in a semi-transparent white façade that creates the illusion of three peaks rising in the distance. These peaks are reminiscent of mountain ranges, an apt metaphor for the land’s historical significance. At the entrance is an artificial sea, a tranquil water element that satisfies the yearning for a sea view and connects the architectural design with its natural surroundings.
The historical background of Coffee Village adds cultural depth to the project. It was once a coffee plantation established by overseas Chinese workers returning from Indonesia. The country’s history is marked by struggle and exile. This transformation – from hardship to a symbol of hope and prosperity – served as a key inspiration for Wutopia Lab’s design approach.
The architectural team sought to create a new visual language by combining natural elements with existing structural frames. The result is a soft geometric form that blends seamlessly with the lush landscape that surrounds the site. Instead of traditional perforated aluminum panels, Wutopia Lab used white Ferrari panels to create a unique facade that provides dimensional stability while enhancing aesthetics with a delicate transparency.
The play of light and space is at the core of Flickering Peak. The exterior of the building features varying degrees of transparency, creating a dynamic flickering effect as sunlight hits the surface throughout the day. This interplay of light gives the structure a sense of softness and calm during the day. At night, the arts center transforms into a beacon of bright colors, with light radiating from within, creating a magical, almost ethereal atmosphere.
By combining elements of old and new, Wutopia Lab has created a space that reflects the spirit of wonder, hope and community. Flickering Peak is a testament to the power of architecture to honor cultural history while integrating modern design.
To learn more about Flickering Peak and discover Wutopia Lab’s other innovative projects, visit the official Wutopia Lab website.
