The Xuanpu Pavilion (Hanging Fall Pavilion) at Zhejiang University's Zhoushan Campus, designed by UAD and completed in 2024, reimagines the concept of a commemorative structure. Originally conceived as a conventional sculpture to mark the campus's 10th and its marine disciplines' 15th anniversaries, the design team opted for an experiential and interactive space. This 50 m² installation serves as a spiritual core, providing a serene environment for students and faculty to engage in rest, dialogue, and contemplation, seamlessly blending with the campus's tranquil, sea-oriented setting.
Xuanpu Pavilion: A Symbolic & Experiential Campus Hub
In the picturesque coastal city of Zhoushan, China, at Zhejiang University's scenic campus, a remarkable architectural creation known as the Xuanpu Pavilion, or Hanging Fall Pavilion, now stands as a testament to thoughtful design. Completed in 2024 by the esteemed UAD architectural firm, under the leadership of Lead Architect Sun Xiaoye, this pavilion is more than just a structure; it's a living monument. Its genesis was to commemorate two significant milestones: the tenth anniversary of the Zhoushan Campus and the fifteenth anniversary of its distinguished marine disciplines. However, the original design brief for a conventional sculpture was transformed by the UAD team, including talented designers Huang Yunshan and Su Liang, into something far more profound. Instead of an isolated visual landmark, they envisioned and brought to life an interactive 'place' — a spiritual core that harmoniously integrates with the campus's serene, sea-cradled environment. This innovative structure, spanning 50 square meters, now offers students and faculty a unique setting for daily rest, meaningful dialogue, and quiet contemplation, fostering a deeper connection with their surroundings. The pavilion’s construction utilized a blend of stone, concrete, and brick, embodying a robust yet aesthetically pleasing design that complements the natural landscape. The project team, including structural engineers Zhang Zhengyu and Lu Junfeng, water supply and drainage engineer Wang Yibei, electro-mechanical engineer Zheng Wenjun, landscape engineer Huang Lu, and lighting engineer Liu Yihan, meticulously crafted every detail to ensure both functionality and artistic merit.
The creation of the Xuanpu Pavilion serves as an inspiring example of how architectural design can transcend its functional purpose to become a catalyst for community interaction and emotional connection. It reminds us that commemorative structures need not be static symbols, but can instead be dynamic spaces that enrich the daily lives of those they serve. This project challenges conventional notions of remembrance, advocating for designs that invite engagement and reflection, thereby fostering a deeper sense of belonging and intellectual curiosity within an academic community.