Overlooking Qianhai Bay on the banks of the Pearl River Delta in Shenzhen, China, and due to open in 2025, the Guoshen Museum, is destined to be China’s National Museum Shenzhen Branch, highlighting the wide-reaching importance of this region of rapid economic development.

A “21^st Century treasure boat” designed to showcase 5,000 years of Chinese cultural heritage, JKMM’s design entices visitors from a new civic plaza up inside to a lobby offering intersecting views of mountains, city and sea. A central, top-lit courtyard connects all galleries while bringing daylight deep into the building. In a landscaped setting designed by JKMM, this monumental yet subtle and pared down building presents itself to the city while playing on the poetic presence of the sea.

The Guoshen Museum architecture competition was organised by Shenzhen Qianhai Development and Investment Holding Co Ltd with JKMM as the Runners Up receiving “Excellent Prize” (Top 3 Finalist Award).