By Jessica Stewart on December 29, 2023

Chengdu, China, is an important hub for the science fiction community, having launched the careers of many important Chinese authors over the past 50 years. To honor this heritage, the city commissioned Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) to design the new Chengdu Science Fiction Museum. The futuristic building is situated in the core area of Jingrong Lake within the Science & Innovation New City of Chengdu’s Pidu District and appears to float on water.

The fluid forms of the roof radiate out from a central point, emulating an expanding nebula cloud with a star at its center. Using defined pedestrian routes, guests are invited to visit different activity zones on a journey of discovery that weaves between indoor and outdoor plazas.

The interior was created with the goal of hosting the widest array of events possible. Its 59,000 square meters of space includes exhibition galleries, a multi-function hall, a conference center, and supporting ancillary spaces. Since opening, it’s already attracting major events, including the World Science Fiction Convention (Worldcon) and Hugo Awards, both of which had never taken place in China before.

In keeping with ZHA’s design philosophy, the museum is integrated into the natural landscape [,,,]

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