The Zhuhai Hengqin Supercomputing Centre in China is set to be one of the largest world-class AI computing centres when it completes in 2023. Phase Three is jointly designed by Guangdong Architectural Design & Research Institute (GDAD) and Aedas design team, which is led by Executive Director Kelvin Hu.

Located on Huandao West Road at the base of Xiaohengqin Mountain, the landscape and abundant greenery provide a thriving scenery to the project. In light of such beneficial ecology, the design manifests itself into two main concepts: Advanced Technology and Sustainable Ecology. 

“Phase Three is located near one of the cooling stations, where the cool energy generated from the power plant is transferred to the site through the station and underground pipes. Our key is to integrate the ecology and technology into one design core in the Science Innovation Zone,” says Hu.

The design emphasises geometry and movement, expressing an architectural language that resembles stacked terominoes at first glance. Upon closer inspection, the linear facade uses metal plates to mimic the dense lines on circuits, which are indispensable to any AI computing platforms. The project is complete with lighting features to light up the area as a shining technological cube during the night.

Subdivision of functional body blocks create a jagged form with creeping plants growing between the grooves. This not only integrates nature with architecture, but also enhances vertical interaction within the building. To further this approach, the blocks in the middle of the building adopts facade mullions and double insulating glass to create a stick glass curtain wall exterior that enables sunlight to penetrate and blur the boundaries to the exterior surroundings. 

Hu says, “We hope to create a design that infuses elements of nature with technology in a diverse and interactive environment. As such, this neo-futuristic project shall be a green cubic landmark in Hengqin New District.” 

Illustration by Aedas.

This article first published on Cubes Issue #103. Purchase your digital copy here.

We think you might also like Cheng Chung Design creates a financial center with futuristic elements and Oriental architecture