Kulangsu, a small island facing the city of Xiamen, holds a unique place in history. Following the opening of Xiamen as a commercial port in 1843 and its establishment as an international settlement in 1903, Kulangsu became a vital hub for Sino-foreign exchanges. This cultural interchange is vividly reflected in its urban fabric, where architectural styles such as Traditional Southern Fujian, Western Classical Revival, and Veranda Colonial coexist. The most remarkable outcome of this fusion is the Amoy Deco Style – a synthesis of early 20th-century Modernism and Art Deco – which stands as a testament to the island’s rich, multicultural heritage.

We chose Kulangsu because of its extraordinary historical significance and its potential to serve as a bridge between Eastern and Western cultures. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kulangsu embodies a legacy of cultural exchange, yet it faces challenges such as tourist congestion and a lack of awareness about its heritage. This proposal seeks to address these issues by reimagining the role of a visitor centre as a dynamic, inclusive, and sustainable space.

The design concept is rooted in principles of transparency, permeability, and adaptability. Inspired by the rhizome structure, the visitor centre’s functions are interconnected, allowing for efficient visitor navigation. An external enclosure defines the site while offering flexibility for future expansion. The use of curtain walls ensures transparency, inviting passersby to engage visually with the activities inside, fostering a deeper connection to Kulangsu’s heritage.

This innovative approach transforms the visitor centre from a static building into a vibrant ‘service point’. By integrating sustainable practices, such as the use of recycled materials and Design for Disassembly, the proposal aligns with ecological goals. Ultimately, this design redefines the visitor centre as a space that not only preserves Kulangsu’s history but also serves as a catalyst for community engagement, sustainable tourism, and cultural awareness.