Cultural Symbolism in Contemporary Architecture

Info & Images: Courtesy Stufish Entertainment Architects

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Mark Fisher of Stufish Entertainment Architects references traditional symbolism of the local Chu-Han culture to design the upbeat Wanda Movie Theme Park in Wuhan...

“Stage and set design, and structural architecture are simply two ends of the same rainbow,” say the architects.  With exclusive designs for the likes of The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, Queen and Madonna, and transforming venues for semi-permanent shows such as Kà by Cirque Du Soleil at the MGM Grand Theatre in Las Vegas among several others, the firm’s latest outing is the Movie Theme Park - one of two key buildings that anchor the 1.8sq. km  'Wuhan Central Cultural District' development - a programme of offices, residential, cultural buildings and shopping malls along a 2 km canal-side site.

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The 80,000 sq. m. building contains six multidimensional movie theatres. Six movie rides ranging from simple 3d to actor and scenery enhanced 6d experiences regale visitors amid other attractions viz., immersive restaurants, fast-food outlets, guest facilities, and Hollywood themed retail opportunities.

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The primary form of the building derives from the Wuhan Bells, a traditional symbol of the local Chu-Han culture. This shape has been replicated and grouped into two distinct clusters, each big enough to house large scale theme park rides arranged on ground and upper levels. Glazed areas at street level provide double-height shop fronts onto the lake, and generous views out from the various dining and retail facilities within.

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From the public plaza to the south, the main entrance bell channels guests through the 'Street of Bells' commercial axis, sweeping them into the Grand Atrium. The balcony walls of the 80m wide atrium are lined with LED screens.  Choreographed theatrical lighting enhances the ad-hoc energy of the interstitial spaces and atrium terracing.  Jutting escalators and bold signage lead guests to the pre-show lobbies and monumental movie themed experiences designed by Forrec and ILM.

To the east, the building is flanked by a public park and lakeside boardwalk. The Movie Park opened on 20 December 2014.