CULTURAL EXCHANGE CONVENTION CENTRE

Yangshuo, China

The Cultural Exchange Convention Centre, constructed in Guilin, China, exemplifies MDL’s commitment to symbolism in architecture: Inspired by the form of a wedding ring, the building embodies the concept of union and commitment.

Massimo Mercurio recalls the project’s inception, stating that it “came out of the blue through a former colleague. They wanted something with strong character, something a little beyond average taste.” Situated in front of a somewhat traditionally styled hotel with a curved pitched roof, the Centre functions as a large wedding hall, complemented by ancillary spaces such as a lobby, reception area, bridal suites, and guest rooms.

The project’s site itself is quite striking, with a river and a range of low hills behind the hotel forming a conical and dramatic backdrop. One such hill, Moon Hill, features a natural arch, creating a moon-like silhouette at night. The design aims to orient the wedding hall towards Moon Hill, enhancing the symbolism of the space. A large circular pond wraps around the semi-circular wedding hall, reflecting both the mountain and the building itself. This dual reflection creates a sense of infinity and amplifies the architectural form’s sensual appeal.

Initially, the clients requested a diamond-shaped hall, but MDL proposed a wedding ring shape for the entire complex. The central hall is indeed diamond-shaped, with the surrounding structure lifting to “support” it, tapering down to form a pathway around the pond. This design allows visitors to walk from the ground to the roof, creating a seamless connection between the landscape and the building.

The hall’s glass façades are designed to evoke a crystal or diamond, with minimal visible framing to preserve this effect. Inspired by a Tiffany ring, two granite “clamps” anchor the diamond-shaped hall. This approach is marked by regular enfilades of windows over two levels, while the lake-facing elevation features a continuous double-height enfilade. This is framed by colonnades that subtly reference ancient temple columns, enhancing the building’s symbolic and sensual qualities.

Originally intended to be clad in titanium, the building now uses aluminium textured to resemble titanium, echoing the etched facets of a diamond and reinforcing the overall theme of preciousness and refinement.