Austrian firm Delugan Meissl Associated Architects has completed the creation of a
botanical garden complex in Taiyuan, China. The gigantic structure features three domed greenhouses positioned both above and beside an artificial lake; in addition to the development of the
complete artificial landscape , with gardens, hills, lakes and waterfalls.
The
three domed greenhouses are the centerpiece of the project, providing the ideal climate for growing plants from different regions. Each of the three domes was built with double-curved
laminated wood beams arranged in two or three layers that cross each other. "With a clear span of over 90 metres, the widest of the three domes is
one of the largest timber truss structures in the world ," the DMAA said.
The largest dome contains a
tropical garden , while the second pavilion recreates a
desert environment . The smallest dome, positioned over the lake, houses a display of
aquatic plants . All three domes are glazed with curved double glass and include windows that can be opened open that
help maintain the internal climate at the desired temperature .
The wooden lattice roof structure was inspired by the design of
traditional Chinese religious temples . Wooden beams were stacked in a way that created a curved grid that, when hit by sunlight, casts shadows in a complex geometric pattern.
The first building of the complex features a domed structure that houses the entrance hall. The
Taiyuan Botanical Garden also includes a Natural History Museum, administrative facilities, a restaurant, a Bonsai Museum, and a research center with a library. and accommodation for staff.
A moving walkway extending through the opening of the entrance building transports visitors to a
large terrace with panoramic views of the park . The landscaping of the
182-hectare site was designed by Munich-based firm Valentien + Valentien.
Source: Dezeen
