An Homage to Memphis: Ya Space! Art & Design Museum by Li Wenqiang.

Memphis is a word with multiple meanings. Geographically, it reminds us of the US city – the home of Elvis Presley’s blues and rock’n’roll. In the design field, the term represents a unique anti-rational style and the Memphis Group — an Italian design and architecture collective from the 80s.

This project by Li Wenqiang of PIG DESIGN is a playful “art museum” and exhibition space in Hangzhou, China, with Memphis furniture displayed as the main exhibits. Dubbed Ya Space!, the project echoes the nickname of Memphis City in China — “Cliff City” (“Cliff” is pronounced as “Ya” in the Chinese language), also conveying an element of the unexpected sensory experiences Memphis furniture brings to people.

Elements representative of Memphis style, including geometric shapes and free composition, are frequently applied in this project. Ultimately, Li Wenqiang hopes to go beyond Memphis’ extreme emphasis on visual effects with enhanced textures and more sustainable concepts.

Further referencing the concept of the “cliff”, the façade is constructed from corrugated stainless steel sheets, characterized by bizarre visual effects, and complex structures and techniques. During construction, the design team constantly improved the edging and connection of corrugated sheets, as well as the treatment of nodes and materials, to ensure a holistic image. The entrance is highlighted by a large exclamation point, guiding visitors to explore the unknown interior world. All the visual elements perceived beforehand constitute an “index” of the peculiar and irregular space.

The interior space is composed of two floors. The first one centres on providing unconventional experiences, producing spatial rhythm through unique combinations of geometric shapes. The foyer features irregular stairs paved with black stone, a door opening that brings a sense of order that enriches the experience, and a building block game-like scene that breaks visual barriers.

Countless visual points are formed by the combination of structures of various shapes. Every structure is a visual point and a geometrically-cut view frame. Suspended from the ceiling, circular light boxes cast and diffuse lights, creating a surreal floating-like atmosphere.

An array of cylinders form the bar counter and several independent metal installations form the stair handrail. In this space, ordinary items constitute a stage for display and experience. Many interior structures utilize the same materials as the walls, appearing as objects that naturally “grow” from the space.

The entire space on the second floor is used for exhibition. The interior surfaces comprise movable geometric screens. The design continues the concept of “view frame”, aiming to bring changes to the angles of observation. In this space, visitors can have a whole or partial view of scenes, standing on tiptoes or bending down. Simple yet subtle arrangement of spatial structures produces playfulness within the space. Those structures adopt the same finishes as the floor as if they’re growing from the base.

The design of the display area is based on the concept of framed views. Through cutting and recombining the vistas, Ya Space! brings infinite possibilities for multiple visual experiences, making the game of observation even more interesting.

Related: Museum for Architectural Models in Shanghai, China by Wutopia Lab.

[Images courtesy of Li Wenqiang/ PIG DESIGN. Photography by Shao Feng.]