New York-based architecture practice Ennead Architects has won a three-staged open competition to design the new International Performance Center in Shenzhen, China.

The new project is aimed to be part of a major cultural development to further cement the city as a world-class metropolitan destination. 

Featuring two golden shells on the undulating roof of the building, the building opens up itself with a full height glass lobby on the ground level to provide an unobstructed visual connection to the city and parks around. 

One of the golden shells is planed to house the Dream Theater, while the other will function as the Star Concert Hall accommodating up to 800 seating capacity.

The project is located in the Futian District in downtown Shenzhen, Ennead Architects’ new International Performance Center will be one of three new co-located public cultural buildings, along with the Shenzhen Reform and Opening-up Exhibition Hall and Shenzhen Finance Culture Center, part of a large masterplan that will mark a significant cultural addition to one of the world’s leading technology capitals.

Referred to as “The People’s Performing Arts Center,” the project will serve the global arts community and the citizens of Shenzhen alike, reimagining the possibilities of immersive performing arts experiences.