Time: 2002/2003     Location: Beijing     Size: 920 sqm

Facing its construction site across the street, the sales center is located in an area adjacent to one of the busiest commercial districts in Beijing . the program calls for a sales office with the quality of cultural delight to attract the upper class, Thus, the design is set to generate a place which is , though placed in a chaotic setting, indeed an enclave for retreat.

Essential, this temporary structure is designed to reference the old Beijing urban space which will die the same day the project is completed. The architects notice two elements play essential roles in the old Beijing . One is color, a blend of large areas of grey with strategic amount of deep red and splendid orange ceramic tiles; the other is a quietness of urban space not lacking of vivid urban life.

These two elements are articulated by means of materiality and space.

Although the traditional grey brick is not applied, a dark black slate is selected as wall tiles whose undulating surface suggests traditional masonry craftsmanship. Under the back drop of such dark grey a metal box is projected in the color of copper.