Construction on Steven Holl‘s COFCO Cultural and Health Center in Shanghai is now complete. The center comprises two concrete buildings themed with irregular openings that take place in a landscaped park in Fengxian District.
Photography is by Agovision
The concept was translated into architecture by shaping the landscape into clock-like circular forms surrounding the cloud like-buildings. To resemble clouds both buildings are made of White Concrete with various shaped voids. According to the designers, the cloud-like ?porosity and openness? will invite the public.
“While the housing blocks are repetitive and extensive, here the architecture is of spatial energy and openness, […] inviting the whole community in for recreational and cultural programmes while health needs are provided by the integral health building.”
?Said Steven Holl
Although the scheme for the COFCO Center was designed long before COVID – 19 times, the designer ensured integrating strategies and approaches that respect the current pandemic. The green space surrounding the buildings is supposed to maximize fresh air and natural light.
“To work on architecture for culture and health is a social commitment, much needed in our current moment, as we continue to feel the global impacts of the pandemic,”

?Said Steven Holl
Steven Holl integrated a ramp into the building – Photography is by Agovision
As for the Health Center building, it was shaped by the surroundin...