The new Shenzhen Cultural Center takes shape in Minzhi Subdistrict, Longhua District. The 83,300-square-meter cultural facility is scheduled to begin trial operation on Sept. 28.

A major new cultural landmark is about to open its doors in Longhua.

The new Shenzhen Cultural Center, currently the largest cultural center in China by floor area in a single building, is scheduled to begin trial operation on Sept. 28 in Minzhi Subdistrict.

Covering about 83,300 square meters, the center brings together performances, exhibitions, arts education, reading, intangible cultural heritage and other public cultural services.

Designed around the concept of a "cultural vessel and arts village in the clouds," the building draws inspiration from Guangdong's maritime culture, with flowing architectural lines and interconnected indoor and outdoor spaces.

An architectural rendering shows the new Shenzhen Cultural Center in Minzhi Subdistrict, Longhua District.

More than a performance venue

The center has four performance venues: a 1,200-seat main theater, a 500-seat experimental theater, a 500-seat multifunctional hall and a 90-seat black box theater. It also features exhibition spaces, an arts library and 29 training rooms for activities ranging from traditional crafts and ceramics to coffee, tea and floral art.

An architectural rendering shows the spacious interior of the new Shenzhen Cultural Center.

Beyond performances and classes, the center is designed as an everyday cultural and social space. Creative retail, stand-up comedy, live music and programs combining culture with technology and other lifestyle elements will be part of its offerings.

Young people will be a particular focus. Planned programs include the Greater Bay Area Youth Arts Festival, livehouse performances and stand-up comedy. Young participants will also be invited to get involved in volunteering, exhibitions, cultural projects and other aspects of the center's programming.

Technology will play a prominent role in the visitor experience. A 3D digital staff member will provide information and activity guidance across online and on-site platforms, while an intelligent operations center will use the Internet of Things, big data and digital twins to support venue management.

An immersive digital cultural and tourism space will feature large-scale VR experiences and an 8K dome flying theater.

The center will also continue Shenzhen's group-based public arts program, which allows residents to propose classes they want to take and form groups with others who share their interests.

A growing cultural hub in Longhua

Located at the intersection of Minzhi Avenue and Minkang Road, the center adds another major city-level cultural institution to Longhua.

Shenzhen Art Museum's new venue and Shenzhen Library North have already opened in the district. Together with the new cultural center, they are expanding the range of major cultural facilities available in northern Shenzhen.

When trial operation begins on Sept. 28, the new center will offer residents and visitors another destination for performances, exhibitions, learning, digital experiences and everyday cultural life.