Photography by Xia Zhi
AntiStatics Architecture have created a unique and sculptural facade for a building in Beijing, China, that has a somewhat hidden portrait of Chairman Mao within it. The sculptural facade is located in a Hutong alley that’s adjacent to The People’s Art House Print Shop, that was once one of the primary producers of the Chairman’s now iconic image.
The concept for the experimental facade, which is made from concrete, combines the portrait, the history of the area and the element of a flowing fabric.
The portrait was digitized and using computerized algorithms, the portrait is concealed within the design of the panels. Each panel was then cast as a single unit from large CNC milled molds.
Photography by AntiStatics Architecture
The end result is a collection of six panels that range from 4 to 7 meters in height, 2 meters wide and just 7 centimeters thick. The panels span the facade without the need for any substructure or support.
Photography by AntiStatics Architecture
During the day, the concrete panels look like a flowing piece of fabric that adds a sculptural touch to the alley.
Photography by Xia Zhi and Antistatics Architecture
At night, when the lights within the MaoHaus are lit, you can see how the portrait of Chairman Mao comes to life.
Photography by Xia Zhi
Here’s a closer look at the concrete panels.
Photography by Xia Zhi
From within the house, the concrete panels become a backdrop for a single tree.
