Shenzhen, China’s southernmost city, is advancing urban innovation with the creation of the world’s largest indoor ski resort—Shenzhen Qianhai HuaFa Ice and Snow World. Its exhibition centre plays a central role, standing out for its scale and cultural significance. More than a showcase, it serves as a platform to promote ice and snow culture while reflecting the city’s commitment to forward-looking development.
Using the design theme of “Ice + Light + Art,” the project aims to create a landmark that merges technology with culture. This vision ensures a seamless shift from exhibition space to commercial use, supporting long-term economic and operational value while enhancing Shenzhen’s reputation as a hub for creative urban experiences.
Inspired by a Chinese explorer’s glacier expedition documentary, the project brings to life a captivating “Ice and Snow Adventure” through six immersive scenes—Snow Cliff, Blue Ice Cave, Ice Sky Light, Ice Spire, Igloo, and Snowflake. Each environment draws from the awe of natural ice landscapes, combining the spirit of exploration with contemporary design. This fusion of nature and innovation creates a unique spatial experience that not only engages visitors but also establishes a landmark rich in cultural depth and commercial value.
The project’s material selection plays a crucial role in bringing the ice and snow theme to life while supporting sustainability and design precision. GRG (Glassfiber Reinforced Gypsum) is extensively used for creating flowing walls and ribbon-like light fixtures, thanks to its exceptional moldability, lightweight properties, and recyclability. It accurately captures the project’s complex curves while minimising construction waste, aligning with green building standards.
In the tunnel area, Ice Jade Stone is chosen for its translucent texture, which, when paired with natural light and shadow, beautifully evokes the visual essence of ice and snow. This material not only enhances the artistic quality of the space but also offers durability and environmental responsibility, contributing to the overall longevity and visual impact of the design.
To further elevate the sensory experience, the project incorporates holographic projection, LED screens, and dynamic lighting effects. These immersive technologies transform the environment into a multi-dimensional space that draws visitors into the heart of an ice and snow world. The result is a fully interactive and visually rich atmosphere that blends nature-inspired aesthetics with advanced digital innovation.
The exhibition hall features a fluid circulation design and multi-sensory interactive installations that seamlessly immerse visitors. Upon entry, touchscreens, holographic projections, and immersive sandboxes allow visitors to engage with snow-themed content, such as exploring glacier knowledge or viewing real-time snow landscape projections. Following the exhibition’s flow offers a progressive experience, with each section providing layered sensory encounters—from visual and auditory to tactile—for a fully immersive journey.
This project has not only advanced the development of the ice and snow tourism industry, attracting more attention and consumption trends, but also raised public awareness about glacier protection and climate change, spreading the concept of sustainable development. In terms of design, the project breaks through the limitations of traditional spatial design by integrating natural elements with futuristic concepts.
It uses innovative materials and streamlined designs, establishing a new model for exhibition halls centred on immersive experiences and setting a benchmark for “sports + cultural tourism” hybrid spaces, offering references and inspiration for similar future projects.
The main challenge in designing the Hua Fa Ice and Snow World Exhibition Hall was creating a strong visual impact in a limited space with 36 structural columns and irregular ceilings. The design team integrated the columns seamlessly using a streamlined layout and GRG materials, while strategically placing light fixtures to reduce their prominence.
Snow textures, light and shadow refraction, and holographic projections were employed to craft a surreal, immersive experience, overcoming spatial constraints and enhancing both artistry and functionality.
Category:EnvironmentsAward Year:2025Location: Shenzhen, ChinaArchitects:Kris Lin international Design, Shanghai, ChinaDesign Team: Kris Lin and Anda YangClient:Zhuhai Huafa Group Co., Ltd., Shanghai, ChinaPhotographers:Chen Ming
