scale , contrasting dramatically with the surrounding residences and emphasizing the building ’ s previous industrial characteristics . It also enhances the public nature of the new space , which now engages more directly with the urban environment .
The MEP equipment has replaced the former production facilities . Some installations have been optimized to minimize disruption to the space , while others are meant to be displayed . For example , the air ducts in the main exhibition hall take advantage of the triangular space between the coal scuttles and the columns , providing conditioned air through 24 spherical nozzles . The new stainless-steel coverings are placed alongside the old rough concrete , representing their respective times .
Due to the possibility of COVID-19 quarantines on campus , we used scaffolding to create a temporary fence . The quickly assembled scaffolding also serves as a basic frame for exhibition posters , resting chairs , and selling booths , depending on the event . According to statistics , the average lifespan of buildings in China is only about 30 years due to changing environments and requirements . In the past 30 years , this boiler station has fulfilled its original task and is now starting a new one . the smaller rooms could be used as commercial space to fund art events . As a result , we have decided to convert the building into a mixed-use art community , which is a new type of ecology in Xi ’ an . The appropriate functions of this conversion will protect the building ’ s original frame from being divided into cheap co-working units , as is happening with many other urban industrial heritage sites in China .
• Architects : Nomos Architects
• Area : 3988 m ²
• Year : 2022
• Photographs : Xiao Tan ( Studio Ten ), TanArt Commnunity
• Manufacturers : RODECA GMBH
To accommodate this transformation , we added a runway connecting the outdoor square and the main exhibition hall on the third floor . In addition to serving functional needs , the runway also highlights the new interventions applied to both the old chimney and the era it represents .
To bring in soft light and improve the building ’ s thermal performance , we replaced the original elevation with polycarbonate panels . This new material also introduces a different www . refurbandrestore . co . uk - 13