Architecture studio Buzz has transformed three sunken courtyards created for an underground car park into gallery, event and activity spaces for Beijing MAHA Arts Centre in China.
Collectively named the Hermit Space, the three venues are each designed with a distinct atmosphere and intended to "seamlessly integrate" with the parkland surroundings.
Buzz has created subterranean gallery spaces in a Beijing park
"We attempt to investigate whether other spatial categories can be inspired or filled by art and content to further extend the new forms of art space," explained Buzz.
"[The project] aims to connect art spaces with nature, communities, and commuting routes, creating links between two points," it added.
Cave Space is topped by a curving concrete roof The largest and most central venue is Islet Space. It is enclosed with a sloping grass roof surrounded by a ring of skylights that illuminate the main gallery space and cafe below.
A staircase framed by stone-clad walls surrounds its roof, leading down into the white-walled interior where sliding glass doors connect the gallery and cafe.
The Islet Space is the most prominent and central courtyard
"Standing inside, one can see a large open void space illuminated by natural light, creating the impression of a floating metal island in a halo of light, hence its name," said the studio.
"The central design of the main exhibition hall echoes the design of the top, creating an exhibiti...