The Jiu Ke Shu (Nine Trees) Future Arts Center, the new centre for the performing arts near Shanghai is a space for art, drama and above all a welcome retreat for anyone wishing to escape from the hustle and bustle of the great metropolis.

Immersed in woods, the reference in its name to the number 9 seeks to underline a sense of the infinite, as nine multiplied by itself, returns to nine (9x9=81; 8+1=9). This sense of the infinite is also connected to the continuous cycles of plants that pass from the green of spring to the golden hues of Autumn to the nakedness of winter and then back to sprouting new leaves again. This fascination with nature adds an extra touch of quality to the architectural design created by Atelier Frederic Rolland and the Shanghai Construction Design & Research Institute. The complex hosts no less than 5 theatres as well as various spaces for rehearsing any kind of performance and producing any kind of show. It is also the perfect place to enjoy a cup of coffee, while relaxing in the heart of a forest.

The architecture is spacious and dominated by curved lines that connect back to nature. The floor plan is shaped like a seed and the abundant use of glass creates a sense of continuous permeability between the indoors and outdoors. The building’s respect for the environment can also be seen in the systems, which ensure that energy consumption is significantly reduced. iGuzzini luminaires have been used in the great hall where Reflex recessed luminaires brightly illuminate the interweave of the ceiling beams. The large bas-relief that is located in the centre of this vast space is lit, homogeneously and with no shadows for its entire height by Palco and Front Light projectors. Reflex recessed luminaires also light the perimeter of the vast Grand Theatre hall, the largest space in the complex that can seat up to 1200 people.

Outside, Light Up Earth recessed luminaires create homogeneous lighting for the entire external surface of the first floor of the building, while the theatre’s upper crown is lit by Woody projectors. Rectangular version Walky recessed luminaires guarantee visitors’ safety when climbing the building’s low access steps.


Year: 2020

Client: Shanghai Fengxian Nanqiao New City Construction and Development Co., Ltd.

Architectural project: Atelier Frederic Rolland; Shanghai Construction Design & Research Institute Co.,Ltd

Lighting project: Atelier Frederic Rolland; Shanghai Construction Design & Research Institute Co.,Ltd

Photographer: Seth Powers Photography