The Chengdu Natural History Museum in China, designed by Pelli Clarke and Partners, boasts a striking facade reminiscent of jagged mountain peaks in China's Sichuan Province.

The 50,000-square-metre museum is a component of Chengdu's growing "entrepreneurial hub" and harmoniously blends public spaces, shops, galleries and educational facilities.

The design features rock-like volumes enveloped in perforated granite panels, with expansive glazed atria connecting the structures. These "rock volumes" house distinct exhibition spaces, joined by well-lit public areas.

The museum's engaging interior includes suspended dinosaur displays and elevated link bridges inspired by traditional "Shu" mountain paths.

This project has been longlisted in the cultural project category of Dezeen Awards 2023.

Studio: Pelli Clarke and Partners
Project: Chengdu Museum of Natural History
Credits: Chengdu City Construction Investment and Management Group (CDCI), China Southwest Architectural Design and Research (CSWADI)