Boston, Massachusetts, USA
Shenzhen, China

A multinational team composed of 3XN, B+H, and Zhubo Design wins the international competition for Shenzhen Natural History Museum with a sinuous, snake-shaped concept.

The consortium was awarded first place in an international competition attracting over 70 proposals from around the world.

Fifteen teams were selected for the bidding stage, representing 18 countries across North America, Asia, and Europe.

The wining project for the new museum is set to be one Shenzhen’s “Ten Cultural Facilities of the New Era” and the first large-scale comprehensive natural museum Southern China once complete.

Located adjacent to the picturesque Yanzi Lake in the Pingshan District of Shenzhen, the new 100,000m2 facility will be a world-class natural science museum dedicated to interpreting the laws of natural evolution, showing the geographies of Shenzhen and its ecology in a global perspective, and actively advocating science.

A public park extends throughout the roof and highlights the Natural History Museum’s organic geometries. Like a river stream finding its shape in balance with the earth, every turn frames a new spectacular view over the surrounding park, hills, and lake from dedicated viewing terraces along the roof park.

The design extends the public park network and aims to maximize access to the lush green areas throughout with a range of activities dedicated to keeping the site open and active throughout the day – from early morning jogs to late evening strolls. This gives the opportunity for residents and visitors alike to enjoy and connect with nature.

“The concept of “Delta” is very creative. The continuously sloping exterior wall with the landscape roof creates a continuous volume and spatial experience. The form of the cliff is very interesting, and the details are handled well. The layout of the museum and its interaction with ramps and walls create interesting spaces,” said jury member Philip Cox.

Another jury member, Yvonne Farrell, added: “This building captures the unique atmosphere of a riverfront site and finds the timeless property of water as a concept… The connection between function, site, concept, structure, material and space is very clear.”

Architects: 3XN, B+H, and Zhubo Design
Client: Natural History Museum