Japanese design firm Kengo Kuma and Associates has completed the UCCA Clay Museum in China. The team defines the structure with a peaked form clad in handmade ceramic tiles. This is done on purpose to create the 'warmth of craftsmanship' and it is nestled in Yixing. The museum is part of a larger design project to redevelop the area which was once much more industrial.
Partner at Kengo Kuma and Associates, Yutaka Terasaki shares with Dezeen, "We hoped to provide a space that would encourage visitors to rediscover and engage with the rich heritage of Yixing's pottery culture. Rather than constructing a building based on industrial mass production, we intentionally focused on materials and details that convey the marks of the hand and warmth of craftsmanship."
Tile-Cladded Chinese Clay Museums
Kengo Kuma and Associates Designs the UCCA Clay Museum
Trend Themes
1. Handcrafted Building Materials - The use of handmade ceramic tiles highlights a reconnection with artisanal methods and craftsmanship in modern architecture.
2. Heritage-inspired Architectural Design - Drawing inspiration from local cultural heritage to design contemporary structures offers a unique blend of traditional and modern aesthetics.
3. Cultural Heritage Tourism - Creating spaces that celebrate and showcase local cultural practices can enhance tourism by offering enriching and educational visitor experiences.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture and Design - Innovative architectural practices that emphasize handmade and traditional materials are redefining modern construction aesthetics.
2. Cultural Tourism - Attractions that integrate cultural and historical elements can attract diverse tourist demographics seeking unique experiences.
3. Ceramics and Pottery - Reinvigorating interest in handmade ceramics aligns with the rising consumer appreciation for artisanal and locally sourced goods.