The Yichang Grand Theater in China is a new project from OPEN Architecture, known for its innovative designs such as the Chapel of Sound and Sun Tower. The building’s exterior is inspired by the nearby rivers and has a unique shape resembling an alien spaceship.
It will cover an area of 70,000 square meters and will be built primarily from curved, matte anodized aluminum tubes. The building will be raised on stilts to protect against potential flooding and reduce excavation work. The rooftop will feature a semi-outdoor garden, cascading terraced gardens, and an outdoor theater. Additionally, there will be another outdoor theater at ground level near the water.
The interior will include a 1,600-seat grand theater, a 1,200-seat concert hall, and a smaller 400-seat black-box theater, as well as educational facilities, event and exhibition spaces, rehearsal rooms, coffee shops, restaurants, and observation decks.
