Wenzhou Kean University Student Learning Activity Center
The Student Learning and Activity Center (SLAC) of Wenzhou-Kean University is centrally located on the campus, positioned between the academic and residential areas. This building, notable for its light and transparent design, provides unparalleled views of the central lake. A key symbol of the university’s ethos, the SLAC is a multi-functional landmark as a vibrant activity center and a tranquil library. The combination reflects the transformation and evolution of learning spaces, establishing the SLAC as the heart of student life at the university.
Designing the SLAC translates the culture of “absorbing the lessons from nature” into modern architectural languages. The building rests lightly on the lake and horizontally extends into the surrounding landscape.
—Zheng Xiaodong, Vice President, Wenzhou Kean Universit
The building’s internal wayfinding links with the campus’ key pedestrian pathways, which now ascend from the base all the way up to the top of the building, forming a “vertical street” that connects the SLAC’s functional areas. Taking the “grand steps” as a typology, the vertical street generates different types of spaces that allow a variety of activities and social interaction.
The interior, however, is revealed as a rhythmic and dynamic structure of interlaced staircases and functions that embody the spirit of exploration and innovation.
SLAC has three functions: an activity center, a library, and an information center. The lower levels are relatively public and active, while the upper floors are more private and quiet.
—James Lu, Regional Director Asia, Perkins&Will
The horizontal featured plates that expand from the inside to the outside form a concise and clear architectural vocabulary. As the volumes vertically accumulate, the structure’s ceremonial character is gradually reinforced
