The newly completed Songshan Lake Exhibition and Performance Center has officially opened in Dongguan, China, marking a significant addition to the cultural and civic infrastructure of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) in collaboration with the Beijing Institute of Architectural Design, the landmark venue is set to become a premier destination for exhibitions, performances, conferences, and public events.
Landmark Cultural Hub for the Greater Bay Area
Located within Dongguan’s High-Tech Industrial Development Zone, the 45,000-square-metre riverside complex was envisioned as a cultural centerpiece for one of China’s most important innovation and manufacturing regions. Construction began in 2021, and the facility officially welcomed visitors on 30 March 2026.
The project forms a key part of a larger mixed-use masterplan designed to revitalize the Songshan Lake waterfront and create vibrant public spaces for residents and visitors alike.
Design Inspired by Lingnan Heritage and Cantonese Opera
The architectural design draws inspiration from the region’s traditional Lingnan architecture and the graceful “water sleeves” featured in Cantonese Opera costumes. The result is a fluid and dynamic structure that reflects local cultural identity while embracing contemporary architectural innovation.
Its sculptural form creates a striking visual presence along the waterfront and reinforces Dongguan’s growing reputation as a center for culture, technology, and design.
State-of-the-Art Facilities for Events and Performances
The Songshan Lake Exhibition and Performance Center includes a range of world-class facilities designed to accommodate diverse events and audiences. These include:
- A 1,200-seat Grand Theatre
- A large-scale Exhibition Hall
- A 400-seat Multifunction Hall
The venue is equipped to host theatrical productions, concerts, conferences, industry forums, art exhibitions, children’s performances, and sporting events.
A standout feature of the Grand Theatre is its advanced acoustic design. More than 100,000 slender interior spines have been integrated into the auditorium to improve sound diffusion, manage reverberation, and enhance overall acoustic clarity for performers and audiences.
Sustainability at the Core of the Project
Environmental sustainability played a central role throughout the design and construction process. The building utilizes prefabricated ultra-high-performance concrete cladding produced using reusable moulds, helping reduce construction waste, shorten building timelines, and lower carbon emissions.
Additional sustainable features include photovoltaic solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, permeable landscaping, and restored wetland areas. Together, these elements help generate renewable energy, improve water efficiency, and reduce flood risks across the site.
Opening Celebrations Begin with National Symphony Performance
The center launched its public programming with “The Sound of Songhu,” a special opening concert performed by the China National Symphony Orchestra. The inaugural event highlighted the venue’s mission to serve as a dynamic cultural destination for both local communities and international visitors.
The facility is expected to host a wide variety of national and international exhibitions, performances, conferences, and cultural events in the years ahead.
Celebrating Zaha Hadid’s Enduring Legacy
The opening of the Songshan Lake Exhibition and Performance Center coincides with the 10th anniversary of the passing of renowned architect Zaha Hadid. Through projects such as this, Zaha Hadid Architects continues to advance her visionary architectural legacy while delivering innovative and sustainable landmarks around the world.
As Dongguan strengthens its position within the Greater Bay Area, the new cultural complex is expected to play a pivotal role in fostering creativity, community engagement, and international collaboration.
