The Simple Art Museum, designed by architects Jenchieh Hung and Kulthida Songkittipakdee of HAS Design and Research, is located in Anhui, China, on the edge of an ancient city amid rapid urban development. This contemporary art museum bridges the gap between the region’s Hui-style architectural heritage and modern urban design. Drawing from traditional Chinese Hui-style elements such as roofs, gables, and gardens, the museum reinterprets these features into a dynamic, modern space that fosters social interaction and creativity.

The design by Hung and Songkittipakdee (HAS) features a floating, undulating roof, symbolising the connection between past and present, and gives a free-entry public space, creating a seamless environment for art exhibitions, workshops, and public spaces. The expansive ground floor encourages community engagement, while the upper level, with its curved walls and open art offices, promotes collaboration. Situated near the Nanfei River, the building’s curved forms and wave-like roof mirror the river’s natural rhythm. Natural light interacts with the space throughout the day, creating a dynamic atmosphere. More than just a gallery, the Simple Art Museum serves as a cultural incubator, blending tradition and contemporary life, and offering a space where architecture, art, and community converge.

Photography: W Workspace, Fangfang Tian