National Aquatics Centre – A Unique Architectural Spectacle

Impeccable in style and fascinating in design, the National Aquatics Centre is one of the many architectural feats that can be seen in Beijing. The centre has been created on par with the best structures in the world and houses the famous 2008 Olympics Swimming facility. The building is located on the west of the Landscape Avenue in the Olympic Green and sits amongst other architectural giants.

The structure was completed on the first of January 2008 and since then has been a crowd puller. The overall design is quite fascinating and boasts the combination of modern technology along with other design styles that have been inspired by traditional Chinese values. The square earth and round heaven of the Chinese beliefs stand as the primary inspiration behind the design. The stadium covers an area of around 80,000 square metres that is spread across 4 different floors.

In the auditorium there are 6,000 seats and another 11,000 temporary seats. Its gigantic size attracts an array of large events of international standards. From the outside the centre looks like a huge blue box which has earned it the name; the “Water Cube”. In strong sunlight its surface reflects light and shines bright white giving it a look of a pearl in water.

From the inside the several pneumatic cushions that are found give it the appearance of sea bubbles. The technology behind the structure is truly astounding. Some of the methodologies and materials used in construction had never been used in that context before. Not only does it draw a huge audience it also attracts engineers and architects and all those who love the science of construction, to marvel at its impeccable design. It really comes as no surprise that the Popular Science magazine chose the National Aquatic Centre as the ‘Best of What’s New of 2006’.

Beijing is full of amazing architectural wonders that are definitely worth visiting. Most of these structures are around the city and staying at a good city hotel Beijing will provide easy access to these places of interest at your leisure. For an excellent Beijing luxury hotel in close proximity to the city, choose the well placed Grand Millennium Beijing.

 

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

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