lotus hall

energy modeling | daylight studies

humid subtropical climate

winner in cultural architecture - paris design awards 2024

the zhengyi visitor center represents a synthesis of cultural heritage and environmental performance. conceived around the symbolic form of the lotus, the building’s architectural language is not only a gesture to local identity but also a framework for environmental strategies that prioritize energy efficiency, daylight access, and passive comfort

the geometry of the roof, inspired by lotus leaves, is designed with deep overhangs that protect glazed façades from unwanted solar heat gain while still allowing generous daylight into interior spaces. skylights and a central courtyard bring diffuse natural light deep into the building, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and enhancing the quality of public interiors. these passive daylighting measures are paired with high-performance low-e glazing and roof insulation systems that lower the building’s energy use intensity.

the integration of natural ventilation through the roof form, combined with thermal buffering from its concave geometry, reduces cooling loads and improves thermal comfort across seasons. rainwater is managed through landscaped courtyards and roof funnels that act as natural retention and filtration systems, embodying sponge city principles. together, these features minimize peak energy demand, reduce mechanical equipment requirements, and ensure resilient performance under varying climatic conditions.

beyond metrics, the visitor center demonstrates how architectural expression and environmental performance can align. the project shows entrópica’s approach to embedding building science within design, where geometry, material selection, and cultural narrative all converge to create an environmentally responsible landmark for the zhengyi historic town gateway.

project team

designer - SoBA architecture