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The Never Hut by MAD embraces "the collective childhood memories of the community" in Foshan
China Architecture News - Dec 13, 2024 - 14:16 255 views
MAD has revealed its latest installation, The Never Hut, at the Guangdong Nanhai Land Art Festival 2024 in Yanqiao Village, Nanhai District, Foshan City, China.
The design offers a space that encourages reflection and community interactions by striking a balance between cultural narratives and imaginative play.
Image © Tian Fangfang
"This project is about capturing the freedom and wonder of childhood while providing a space for the community to gather, reflect, and imagine what lies ahead," said Ma Yansong, the founder of MAD.
A beloved playground for a nearby elementary school is being transformed by the project, which takes place in the center of a historic community with more than 600 years of history. By redesigning this area, MAD honors the community's shared childhood experiences while bringing vitality and meaning to the area.
The installation was inspired by Yanqiao Village's famous architecture from the Qing Dynasty, its winding river systems, and the magnificent banyan tree at its entrance.
Image © Zhu Yumeng
Three "tentacles" made from local fishing nets support the eye-catching flying saucer-shaped structure known as the Never Hut, which interacts with its surroundings by reacting to the breeze to produce a dynamic interplay between motion and stillness.
The Never Hut offers a round, shaded area for rest, conversation, and connection beneath its broad, vibrant eaves. It creates a lively conversation between the past and present with its bold, cheerful colors that contrast with the historic setting.
Image © Zhu Yumeng
In addition to being a functional space, the Never Hut is a creative focal point that promotes community involvement. Whether it's taking in the cool air, thinking back on the village's history, or admiring the harmony between art and nature, visitors may savor moments of everyday life.
"The Never Hut is a celebration of imagination and community — a space where childhood memories find a new home," said Ma Yansong.
Image © Zhu Yumeng
Image © Zhu Yumeng
Images © Tian Fangfang, Zhu Yumeng
Images © Tian Fangfang, Zhu Yumeng
The acclaimed Timeless Beacon, which has been on exhibit at Taiping Market since 2022 as a component of the Guangdong Nanhai Land Art Festival's "Art at Qiaoshan" series, is one of MAD's previous works in Nanhai District that this installation expands upon.
As part of the Guangdong Nanhai Land Art Festival 2024, the Never Hut is now open to the public, allowing both locals and tourists to enjoy its creative fusion of art, culture, and community.
Top image in the article © Zhu Yumeng.
All images © Tian Fangfang, Zhu Yumeng.
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