Duao Art Museum is situated in a small village in the beautiful mountain areas of Ningbo, the principal city of Zhejiang province.
To build a simple and contemporary style art museum in the countryside, that’s the task that the integrated design firm Progetto CMR is entrusted with.
Given its location and surrounding context, the project aims at creating a strong relationship between the artificial building and nature, as well as preserving local culture.
The building is designed to have 7 wings, connected by a central area. From the center, the wings spread out towards different directions, acquiring a variety of views, and a variety of natural lights. Each view is different, based on the analysis of the surrounding landscape. The interaction between the building and the surrounding environment makes it an intimate place for artists to find inspiration, and a container of art and local culture.
The building is arranged into 3 floors, and each floor has its own function.
The exhibition space is placed on the ground floor, where bamboo gardens and sculptures are fully integrated on the green hill, blurring the boundary between the building and nature. The outdoor workshop at the foot of the hill provides the artists a place to relax and be creative in the bosom of nature.
A small courtyard runs through the center of the 1st and 2nd floors, bringing into the space more natural elements. The 1st floor consists of private rooms and gardens, and windows at the end of the branches make it a perfect place to enjoy the stunning mountain landscapes. The 2nd floor, being half covered and half open, is designed for social situations. Indoor living rooms and restaurants are also designed on this floor to meet private meeting needs.
