In Ya’an, a city-prefecture in China's Sichuan Province, a new research hub dedicated to biodiversity recently opened. Designed by ZXD Architects, the Ya’an Panda Performance Center — situated in close proximity to the Ya’an Bifengxia of the China Giant Panda Protection and Research Center — reimagines the relationship between architecture and nature with a form inspired by the giant panda.

The architectural form features two interconnected cradle-like forms, evoking in their plastic presence the figure of a mother and a panda cub. The larger volume, positioned in the center, houses the main performance hall, while the smaller volume houses dormitories, rehearsal spaces and support functions. The volumes are then unified by the element of roofing, sloping green roofs planted with native vegetation, taking advantage of Ya’an’s abundant rainfall to minimize maintenance costs. Here, visitors are left to walk among the native vegetation, connecting visually and experientially with the distant forested mountains.

Visitors access the space through an underground plaza, which leads to a large atrium flanked by vertical green grids reminiscent of a bamboo forest.

The building façade is composed of perforated aluminum panels designed to mimic the texture of panda fur. The panels feature a long strip format with overhanging edges, creating a feather-like effect that balances large-scale visual impact with intricate detailing. The staggered double-layer arrangement enhances the semi-transparency of the facade, while interior LED lighting adds dynamic effects at night.

But the heart of ZXD Architects’ design is a 1,200-seat performance hall with an immersive stage. Before reaching the main hall, visitors pass through transitional spaces, including an auditorium for exhibitions and related performances.