Celebrating 20 Years of the “Grand National Theatre Beijing”

Since opening up to the western world, China, the most populous country on Earth, has not only attracted western industrial firms but has also transformed the face of many major cities. Increasingly, buildings designed by international architects are emerging, marking the entry into a new epoch.

Twenty years ago, the Chinese government invested in a spectacular project that has since become a venue for opera, theater, and concert performances of international stature. The budget amounted to around 31 million euros. The opera house, located opposite the Forbidden City and in close proximity to the National Assembly, is designed in the form of a giant metal dome placed in the middle of a pond. The freestanding giant clamshell made of aluminum and titanium was completed in December 2004 and has since gained international significance as a cultural landmark of Beijing.

 

High-Tech Structure with Refinements

The building, accessible via an underwater gallery with a glass ceiling, extends 212 meters in length, 143 meters in width, and rises 46 meters high. Under one roof, the metal shell houses an opera house with 2,416 seats, a concert hall for 2,017 spectators, and a theater with 1,014 seats. An underground parking garage, covering 44,678 m², offers space for 950 cars and 1,420 bicycles.

The metal dome, supported by a delicate steel lattice structure, has a surface area of around 40,000 m². The middle section features a double-sided glass surface, spanning 105 meters in length and covering 12,000 m². The metal dome has a double-shell design. Its outer shell consists of a sealing load-bearing shell made of 0.9 mm thick, conical, stucco-designed Kalzip® aluminum standing seam profiles. The outer shell is mounted on titanium composite panels using clips specially developed for this project that grip over the seams of the Kalzip® sheets without penetration. This technique ensures secure attachment of the decorative panel cladding as well as perfect water drainage over the Kalzip® roof surface beneath.

 

Location Challenges

Designed by French architect Paul Andreu, the project is extraordinary not only for its size and design. It is located in a highly earthquake-prone zone and must also withstand high wind loads. Challenging soil conditions required extensive measures to ensure a secure foundation for the structure, which extends down to 36 meters, including the underground parking garage.

The actual construction phase was preceded by extensive computer simulations and load tests on full-scale components to verify compliance with Chinese regulations. The dome’s base consists of an elastically mounted concrete ring, equipped with temporary sliding bearings on the longitudinal sides. These were used in the initial assembly phase to position pairs of lattice girders and connect them to the prefabricated oval central part of the dome. Subsequently, additional lattice girders were installed step by step and anchored to the lower concrete ring as well as the prefabricated dome center. Four diagonally positioned segments with diamond-shaped bracings further stabilize the lattice girders.

 

Intercontinental Teamwork

Great architecture is a “global business” today, as demonstrated by the “China Grand National Theatre.” Its creator, Paul Andreu, has designed and built over 50 airport buildings, including two terminals and the TGV and RER station at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, as well as the Shanghai Pudong Airport. Other major projects by him include the Maritime Museum in Osaka and the Guangzhou Gymnasium, a sports facility composed of three dome-shaped buildings inspired by the hilly landscape of the site, designed by Andreu as the venue for the 9th National Games of the Republic of China, opened in July 2001.

In the development phase of the Beijing project, Andreu was supported by the French company Setec travaux publics & industriels, which conducted studies on the statics and dynamics of the metal shell and the design of the opera, theater, and concert halls. The execution on-site was mainly in the hands of Chinese firms. The Kalzip® standing seam profiles were supplied by Kalzip GmbH, Koblenz, Germany.

Project Details:

• Client: Committee of the Grand National Theatre, Beijing
• Architect: Paul Andreu (Aéroports de Paris)
• Structural Studies: Setec, tpi Paris
• Main Contractor: Hong Kong Construction, Hong Kong
• Manufacturer: Kalzip GmbH, Koblenz
• Kalzip Installation: KGE, Beijing

Highbury Square, located in the vibrant borough of Islington, London, is a unique residential development that seamlessly blends modern living with historic charm. This iconic site, once the legendary Highbury Stadium, the home ground of Arsenal Football Club, has been transformed into a prestigious living space that attracts both locals and international buyers.

 

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Highbury Stadium was Arsenal’s home from 1913 until 2006. Known for its Art Deco East Stand and the striking Marble Halls, the stadium held a special place in the hearts of football fans. After Arsenal moved to the Emirates Stadium, the club decided to preserve the legacy of Highbury by converting it into a residential complex. This decision ensured that the historic architecture and cultural significance of the site were maintained.

 

ARCHITECTURAL TRANSFORMATION

The redevelopment project, completed in 2009, was a remarkable example of how historic preservation can coexist with modern urban living. The East Stand, a Grade II listed building, was meticulously restored and now houses luxury apartments. The pitch area has been converted into a communal garden, providing residents with a serene green space in the heart of the city.

An integral part of this architectural transformation was the roofing system provided by Kalzip. They delivered a liner deck roof system, utilizing their Kalzip 65/400 profile in a stucco-embossed finish. This modern and durable roofing solution not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the development but also ensures long-lasting protection against the elements.

Kalzip, renowned for its work on hundreds of sports venues worldwide, showcases its versatility in this project by transforming an old sports venue into a modern residential space while preserving its historical essence.

The design of Highbury Square respects the original structure’s architectural heritage while incorporating contemporary elements. The sleek, modern interiors of the apartments contrast beautifully with the historic exterior, offering residents the best of both worlds.

 

MODERN LIVING

Highbury Square offers a range of high-end amenities that cater to the needs of modern urban dwellers. These include a 24-hour concierge service, a fully equipped gym, underground parking, and beautiful landscaped gardens. The apartments themselves are designed to the highest standards, featuring open-plan living spaces, large windows that allow for plenty of natural light, and high-quality finishes.

Residents benefit from the development’s prime location in Islington, a borough known for its lively arts scene, diverse dining options, and excellent transport links. Highbury & Islington Station, providing access to the Victoria Line, Overground, and National Rail services, is just a short walk away, making it easy for residents to commute to different parts of London.

 

COMMUNITY AND LIFESTYLE

Living in Highbury Square means being part of a vibrant community. The development attracts a diverse group of residents, including professionals, families, and retirees. The communal gardens serve as a gathering space where neighbors can socialize, children can play, and events can be held, fostering a strong sense of community.

Islington itself offers a rich array of cultural and recreational activities. From the bustling Upper Street with its trendy boutiques and cafes to the serene Highbury Fields, there is something for everyone. The area is also home to numerous theaters, galleries, and music venues, ensuring that residents always have access to the best of London’s cultural scene.

 

CONCLUSION

Highbury Square is more than just a residential development; it is a symbol of how historic sites can be repurposed to meet contemporary needs while preserving their heritage. For those seeking a blend of modern luxury and historic charm in one of London’s most desirable neighborhoods, Highbury Square stands out as an ideal choice. Its unique history, stunning architecture, and vibrant community make it a truly special place to call home. The incorporation of Kalzip’s liner deck roof system further exemplifies the meticulous attention to detail and quality that defines this exceptional development.

Kalzip’s involvement in this project underscores their expertise in adapting old sports venues into contemporary living spaces, blending heritage with innovation.