Ascending Ground Bibliotheca Communis by Hao Zhong

Ascending Ground Bibliotheca Communis by Hao Zhong is a highly esteemed winner of the very prestigious 2026 Praemium A' Design Award Argenteum in Architectura Competition Category.

ArgentumArchitectura· 2026

Ascending Ground Bibliotheca Communis

by Hao Zhong

Client: Hao Zhong

Praemium A' Design Award Argenteum Winner in Architectura Category

13,752
Verified Award Winner
Verify Award Status for #181487

View at A' Design Award Press Release Award Badge

Colors

The Design

About Ascending Ground Bibliotheca Communis

In antiquo oppido Wuzhen sita, Terra Ascendens dialogum inter perpetuitatem et apertionem per bibliothecam communem aetatis nostrae explorat. Moles ex lateribus cineraceis reciperatis aedificium in traditione locali firmant, dum terrae, suggesta atque aperturae caelatae motum fluentem et prospectus inclusos generant. Vacuum centrale luce plenum naturam et actionem socialem introducit, bibliothecam in regionem spatialem multiplicem transformans quae architecturam, lucem diurnam atque memoriam urbanam coniungit.

The Recognition

About the Praemium A' Design Award Argenteum

Ascending Ground Bibliotheca Communis victor est Praemii A' Design Award Argenteum, honoris eximie amplissimi formis summi generis, pulchris et conspicuis dati. Victores Argenti opera valde splendida et creandi ingenio praedita sunt, quae praestantem peritiam, talentum et acumen auctorum suorum ostendunt. Exspectatur Ascending Ground Bibliotheca Communis opus mirabile, exemplare, valde professionale et penitus novum fore. Haec forma Argento victa inventum notabile et admiratum est, quod ad fines artis, scientiae, formandi rationis et technologiae promovendos confert. Ascending Ground Bibliotheca Communis creatio est, quam multi invident, quae cupiditates excitat, sensus bonos affert et admirationem miraculumque movet.

Behind the Design

Press Kit

Credits, team members and technical details provided by the designer.

Unique Properties: The project reinterprets Wuzhen’s historic architectural language through a contemporary community library that merges cave-like enclosed spaces with open terraces. The façade employs locally sourced recycled bricks, reinforcing regional identity while reducing material impact. A heavy masonry mass contrasts with a light-filled central void, creating layered circulation and a social platform connecting residents and visitors.
Dimensions & Packaging: The building is organized as a multi-level library composed of a heacy mass cladded with local-sourced recycled bricks and lightweight steel terrace structures. Massing and platform geometry were optimized through sun-path analysis to enhance daylight performance and natural ventilation. Varied façade openings regulate light and views, while staggered terraces create integrated circulation across levels, supporting flexible spatial use and environmental responsiveness.
Tags: community library, contextualized design, heritage integration, recycled material
Production Technology: The overall massing and platform layout were determined through careful study of the sun path to optimize daylight and capture views of Wuzhen’s historic district. Heavy volumes use locally sourced recycled grey bricks, while lightweight timber and steel define the central void and terraces. Staggered terraces, varied window openings, and intersecting stairs create layered spatial experiences, blending traditional materials with contemporary construction techniques.
Design Challenge: Integrating a contemporary library into Wuzhen’s historic fabric required balancing tradition and innovation while addressing social and spatial needs. Constraints included local regulations, material availability, and construction logistics in narrow historic streets.
Inspiration: The design is inspired by the rich historical and cultural fabric of Wuzhen, particularly its muted grey brick and white-walled architecture. Motivated to create a contemporary intervention that respects tradition, the project explores spatial contrasts between enclosed cave-like areas and open terraces, fostering community interaction while embracing the town’s scenic context.
Project Duration: The project concept started in 2018 during my travel in Wuzhen and the design finished in 2019.
Operation Flow: The library features a system of staggered stairs, platforms, and vertical circulation within the brick volumes, allowing visitors to move freely between enclosed, cave-like spaces and open terraces. This separation of circulation creates multiple paths, encourages exploration, and frames diverse views of Wuzhen, while the central void and terraces serve as flexible communal spaces that enhance social interaction and experiential engagement.
Patents: Hao Zhong
Team Members: Hao Zhong
Image Credits: Hao Zhong