The Heilongtan Dome Music Hall, nestled at the gateway to a rural community in Chengdu, China, reinterprets the essence of traditional gathering spaces. Designed by Studio Dali, this structure harmonizes with its natural surroundings, creating an inviting threshold that transcends mere architecture. It is more than just a venue for performances; it serves as a communal hub where people connect through music, stories, and shared experiences. By integrating elements like light, acoustics, and vegetation, the design evokes the timeless spirit of a village banyan tree—a place rooted in protection and openness.

Central to the design is a wooden dome inspired by nature’s canopy, blending seamlessly into the landscape. Its semi-outdoor space fosters both formal events and casual gatherings. Inside, the fluidity of form is enhanced by curved steps doubling as seating areas and alcoves, supported by delicate steel columns mimicking tree trunks. This innovative use of materials ensures the building feels airy yet substantial, fostering harmony between architecture and environment while encouraging introspection and interaction.

An Architectural Tribute to Tradition

Inspired by the iconic banyan tree found in many Chinese villages, the Heilongtan Dome Music Hall captures the symbolic essence of gathering places. The design abstracts the qualities of protection, openness, and rootedness into a modern architectural form. Instead of replicating the literal shape of a tree, Studio Dali has created a semi-outdoor pavilion that functions as a versatile space for concerts, classes, and informal socializing. This structure not only anchors the community spiritually but also invites participation from all members.

This architectural tribute draws heavily on the concept of the banyan tree as a unifying force within rural settings. At the heart of the project lies a gently sloping wooden dome, resembling an inverted tree canopy. Light permeates through numerous skylights, casting dynamic patterns throughout the day. Additionally, three tallow trees grow naturally through the roof, symbolizing the building's commitment to coexistence with nature. Such thoughtful integration underscores the importance of atmosphere alongside functionality, making the hall far more than just a performance venue—it becomes a living extension of the surrounding environment.

A Spatial Symphony of Light and Form

Inside the Heilongtan Dome Music Hall, the interplay of light, materials, and spatial design creates a serene yet dynamic experience. A sloping floor leads visitors toward the lake, forming curved steps that alternate between amphitheater-style seating and quiet nooks. This adaptable layout supports diverse activities, from intimate meditation sessions to vibrant musical performances. The timber structure contributes to a gentle acoustic field, enhancing both expressive and reflective moments.

The structural integrity of the dome relies on twenty-four slender steel columns, their polished surfaces catching and reflecting ambient light. These columns vary in diameter, echoing the proportions of nearby trees. Some float gracefully above the ground, while others extend directly into the earth, subtly filled with gravel to ensure proper drainage. This design choice reinforces the idea of growth and permanence, aligning with the building's ethos of sustainability. Furthermore, the hybrid steel-wood construction minimizes bulk while preserving visual lightness. Hidden insulation systems maintain thermal comfort without disrupting the aesthetic continuity between interior and exterior spaces. Through meticulous attention to detail, the Heilongtan Dome Music Hall achieves a perfect balance between technical innovation and experiential richness, offering users a sanctuary where nature and culture converge harmoniously.