Lushan Xihai Zhelin Dam Cultural Center

Located within 5A Lushan Xihai Scenic Area, this project takes the world-class engineering IP—the earth dam of the ZheLin reservoir—as its physical foundation, creating a smart tourism center that integrates cultural promotion, educational outreach, and ecological conservation. Considering the fragmented distribution of scenic spots, the designer conducted in-depth research into the area’s natural ecology, existing landscape, and cultural resources. They developed a brand-new vertical ecosystem spanning from the sky to the underwater world, forming a complete experience sequence that encompasses astronomy, meteorology, mountains, geomorphology, man-made wonders, humanities, hydrology, and ecology. This positions the project as the central hub connecting scattered attractions, helping visitors rapidly establish a holistic understanding of Xihai.
The design uses water as the thread weaving through the entire space. The introductory hall opens with a water-themed environment, featuring an openable reservoir gate, digital waterfalls, panoramic water projections, central water mists, and laser effects. These elements create an evolving living entity of water, complemented by ethereal water sounds, immersing visitors in the poetry and philosophy of water. Following the hall, five units narrate the origin of water, the history of water management, the development of water conservancy, ecological changes, and the rise of cultural tourism, guiding visitors to deeply understand the spirit of the Zhelin dam and the ecological wisdom it embodies.
The project leverages digital methods such as panoramic screens, naked-eye 3D displays, and interactive projectors, which, combined with directional sound fields, zone-specific diffusion of aquatic and botanical fragrances, and differential temperature and humidity control, deliver a fully immersive sensory experience. The “Flying Over Xihai” exhibition area on the second floor dynamically presents a three-tier perspective of “Sky-Lake-Islands” on a 180° curved screen, with gesture control allowing visitors to switch among seasonal landscapes. Furthermore, the “Sky-Earth Vertical Theater” utilizes naked-eye 3D display technology to connect the “Underwater Palace” on the first floor with “Flying Over Xihai” on the second floor, creating a spatial linkage that further enhances visitor immersion.