Museum and Equestrian Center Combination by CU Office: Yue & Yue Design Project
Nestled on the campus of the fresh Yantai City College of Science and Technology lies the hybrid Yue Art Museum and Yue Equestrian Hall, sprawling over roughly 4,500 square meters. Although the "Yue" names share a similar ring, they signify two distinct Chinese characters – one symbolizing artistry and the other, horsemanship. This duo creates a versatile hub that supports both academic and extracurricular life.
Let's start with the equestrian center. Built to match the standards set by the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI), the impressive indoor riding arena boasts climate control and even lighting distribution. The facilities also include stables, administrative spaces, training zones, receptions, and various other areas, all seamlessly merged into one integrated environment.
On the other hand, the art museum operates as a university-run contemporary art institution. It features exhibition galleries, artist studios, educational workshop spaces, residency accommodations, a cafe, support offices, and storage areas, ensuring a wide range of programming can thrive.
A Strategic Campus Vision
Located in Yantai’s Fushan District, the university is nestled in an expanding suburban area with limited commercial infrastructure. Given the majority of students reside on campus, the university envisioned a lively, self-sustained student experience. From the get-go, the equestrian center and art museum were envisaged as fundamental pillars of this vision. With the spatial restrictions imposed by campus planning, the architectural team came up with a bold concept: adhering both equestrian and art functions under one roof. This innovative solution was welcomed by the university.
Reviving Classical Ideals
The building's conceptual foundation dates back to China's Six Arts educational philosophy, which highlights the importance of a well-rounded development of intellectual, artistic, and physical abilities. By merging equestrian training and fine arts under one roof, the building illustrates the university's dedication to cultivating students brimming with both physical activity and aesthetic understanding. Far from being mere side attractions, the complex embraces the core values of modern, holistic education.
A Hub for Campus and Beyond
This shared facility welcomes students across various disciplines and serves as a bridge between the university and the wider community. Both equestrian enthusiasts from all over China and contemporary artists from around the world are encouraged to participate in events, residencies, and workshops, thus fostering a fluid and dynamic cultural ecosystem. As the academic year progresses, the complex serves as a steady engine of activity and interaction, acting as a cultural and social catalyst for the university and its locality.
Designing Within Constraints
Positioned near the northern gateway of the campus, the complex was shaped with practical constraints in mind, including limited land and budget. The building's form follows the standard dimensions required for an indoor equestrian arena, resulting in a straightforward, rectangular volume supported by a portal frame structure.
The western portion of the building defines its main facade, designed with simplicity in mind. It resembles a traditional industrial structure, echoing the modest gabled form of a stable. Subtle architectural nuances, such as two compact balconies and a grounded entrance, add some character without excessive ornamentation. This minimalist design intentionally bridges two typologies: the rustic charm of a barn and the timeless elegance of a basilica. Internally, the narrow western wing serves as both gallery space and an indoor circulation path, embodying a duality of function and form.
Sources:- [1] Xu, Q. (2025, March 15). A New Cultural Landmark Emerges - Yantai Yue Art Museum and Equestrian Hall. Retrieved from https://www.yantaiartmuseum.edu.cn/news/575- [2] Li, Y., & Li, Q. (2023, August 1). Designing for a Balanced Education: The Yantai Yue Art Museum and Equestrian Hall. Retrieved from https://uudesign.com/portfolio/yantai-city-college-of-science-and-technology/
- Participants from diverse fields such as equestrian sports and contemporary art are invited to partake in events and workshops, fostering an interdisciplinary cultural ecosystem within the Yue Art Museum and Yue Equestrian Hall.
- The architectural design of the Yue Art Museum and Yue Equestrian Hall is rooted in China's Six Arts educational philosophy, aiming to promote a holistic education that combines physical activity, aesthetic understanding, and intellectual development.
