Beijing 2008: Olympicizing Architecture (Part -1)

Water Cube (National Aquatic Center)

Architects: PTW,Australia and CCDI China
Completed: 2008

Seating Capacity: 17,000 ( Including 11,000 temporary)

The building is named "water cube" because of its state of art architecture which is based on the structure of soap bubbles, air filled pockets of translucent plastic

( which glow blue at night) forming the rectangular face of Beijing Olympic Swimming Center and giving an organic appearance.Image (left-above): Jason Lee / Reuters

The facade of the building surrounded by a moat is made up of more than 3000 air filled pockets not only cause the building to function similarly to a green house but also allow daylight into the building.Solar energy is used to heat the pool and the building and backwash water being filtered and reused in the pools.The membrane of the complex is made up of special material called ETFE ( Ethylene Tetra Fluro Ethylene), also known as king of plastics in construction industry.ETFE allows more light and heat penetration than glass in one hand, On the other it makes the structure light in weight further making the complex eco- friendly and seismic- resistant.

German architect Chris Bosse based in Sydney worked as concept architect for the Water Cube.Two images shot by him is posted below;

Display of colorful lights,