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THAD Unveils the China Pavilion at UIA World Congress of Architects

From June 28 to July 2, the vibrant city of Barcelona, Spain, played host to the 29th UIA World Congress of Architects. The event, chief-curated by the Architectural Design & Research Institute of Tsinghua University (THAD), showcased the China Pavilion. Officially opened on June 29, the pavilion, under the theme "A Dynamic View of Contemporary Chinese Architecture (DVCA)," is the culmination of nearly three years of meticulous planning. It features contributions from an Academic Curatorial Committee consisting of 117 prominent academicians, architects, and designers, presenting a compelling overview of the diverse and innovative contemporary Chinese architectural landscape.

A Grand Opening

During the opening ceremony, UIA President Regina Gonthier applauded the exhibition for its unprecedented scale and exceptional quality. The Secretary-General of the Architectural Society of China, Li Cundong, remarked that this pavilion notably marks the first carbon-neutral China Pavilion in the history of the UIA Congress. Adding to the sense of pride, Xiu Long, President of the Architectural Society of China, announced the upcoming Congress in 2029 will once again be hosted in Beijing, symbolizing the collaborative strength of nearly 300 Chinese architects present at this year’s event.

Liu Yulong, the chief curator and chairman of THAD, outlined that the exhibition is curated around seven pivotal themes: Memory, Nature, Humanity, Craftsmanship, Harmony, Homeland, and Innovation. Academician Cui Kai emphasized the significance of this gathering, inviting architects globally to converge in Beijing in 2029.

Diverse Practices Reflecting Global Perspectives

The pavilion featured over 350 exhibits categorized into 11 themes encompassing urban design, public buildings, cultural spaces, and rural revitalization. It tackled important topics, including public well-being, urban regeneration, and sustainable green development, reflecting the international reach of Chinese architecture through collaborative projects abroad. The participating architects offer a plethora of viewpoints, with some focusing on regional climates and local materials, while others are exploring structural innovations and enhancing spatial experiences, crafting a multidimensional narrative of contemporary Chinese architectural identity.

Engaging the Future

Amid the Congress, THAD orchestrated a range of academic events within the pavilion. The opening forum, "DVCA Architects' Thought Relay at the China Pavilion," assembled over twenty architects. Discussions revolved around strategies for urban regeneration micro-interventions, alongside younger architects delving into avant-garde explorations concerning low-carbon construction and AI-assisted designs. Events like "Dynamic Vision, Future Voices" fostered dialogue among promising talents, showcasing the collaborative spirit of multiple generations actively participating in shaping the future of architecture.

A Carbon-Neutral Leap Forward

Notably, this pavilion is recognized as the first carbon-neutral Chinese pavilion in UIA Congress history. Each aspect of its carbon footprint has been compensated for through dedicated carbon credits and holds international certification. The structural integrity of the pavilion features recyclable composite panels crafted from a blend of eucalyptus and pine fibers, interspersed with recycled wood. Advanced digital media technologies immerse visitors in the narratives of extraordinary Chinese architectural feats through dynamic visual presentations. A custom-designed cloud exhibition platform further enhances accessibility by facilitating simultaneous online viewing, sharing renowned Chinese architectural innovations with a global audience.

Embracing Future Possibilities

According to Liu Yulong, DVCA aims not to confine Chinese architecture to a specific definition but rather showcase its evolving trajectory. “This exhibition transcends mere display; it is about conveying the thought processes of Chinese architects in response to current realities and their future aspirations.” During the Congress, the pavilion welcomed over 6,000 visitors onsite and attracted more than 10,000 virtual participants from numerous countries, fostering an ongoing dialogue that aims to illuminate the thoughts and practices that are presently sculpting contemporary Chinese architecture.