Dangrove is a purpose built ‘state of the art’ storage facility which houses a private collection of contemporary Chinese art. The brief for Dangrove required art storage to be integrated with curatorial requirements, informal exhibition and performance spaces, research facilities, workshops and other related functions. It also required construction to be designed for a minimum 100 year life, deliver low net energy use and have a low carbon footprint. With approximately 10,000 square metres of internal space, the architecture is formed from a hierarchy of experiences created by the arrangement of special spaces, their connection and use of light.
A journey through the building is choreographed to enhance viewing experiences and understanding of the collection. At the heart of Dangrove is a space known as the Great Hall. This is a dramatic, grand room for art of all types to be temporarily displayed, evaluated and curated. Approximately 90m long and 18m wide, the plan is formed by regular bays across the length and in cross section by a ceiling that steps in height from 6m to 28 metres at each bay. A soft even light floods this space through a double skin of UV reducing polycarbonate material above a wall datum of polished concrete.
Sculptural concrete skylights terminate the Great Hall at each end to heighten the sensory experience of natural light within. Dangrove aims to set a new benchmark for art storage and curation reflecting the vision of the client, an important collector, philanthropist and artist.