_{Image courtesy of CLOU Architects}

CLOU Architects repurpose boiler room into an airy gallery
Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
Complete year 2017

Originally built in 1982, CLOU Architects repurpose and transform this industrial boiler room into a public gallery in Taiyuan, China. In 2016, the building was stripped off its original structure and was finally converted into a showroom by the widely acclaimed architecture firm. Additionally, the 2000 sqm building includes a library, reading room, conference centre and a café, making it a target for all audiences.

_{Image courtesy of CLOU Architects}

Previously dark and cavernous, CLOU Architects open up the structure of the boiler room using a combination of transparent and translucent glass brick in order for the building to harbour light while adding pre-function and lounge spaces around the main hall. The boiler room exterior, now made interior, is painted bright red to give depth to the façade during the day.  

_{Image courtesy of CLOU Architects}

Glass bricks, readily available, were an ideal choice of façade material, given the breakneck speed of the renovation, and the desire to maximize the transformation with minimal means. The opacity of the glass walls changes gradually throughout the day according to the position of the sun while strong LED up-lights along the walls create a red ‘lantern effect’ at night.

_{Image courtesy of CLOU Architects}

The black and white columns embellish the structure and provide the spatial framework for the main hall. To create a bright and airy ambience, the architects use white terrazzo flooring, Venetian plasters walls, chrome light boxes and ceilings with barrisol surfaces. The white finishes amplify the natural daylight that is radiated throughout the façade.

_{Image courtesy of CLOU Architects}

As a positive example for adaptive re-use of buildings ‘The Cube, City of Lights’ opened its doors to the public of Taiyuan on January 10th 2017.

more. clouarchitects.com