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In Guangzhou’s Nansha district, two buildings now stand as landmarks at the forefront of the Greater Bay.

One houses the IFF (International Finance Forum) International Finance Center, dedicated to high-level international conferences; the other is the Lingnan Oriental Hotel, conceived as an embodiment of the art of Oriental hospitality.

Built side by side, they share the same design philosophy as well as the same architectural membrane supplied by the Serge Ferrari Group. By integrating the flexibility of composite textiles into the façades of these emblematic buildings, they bring a dynamic dimension to structures that are typically very rational.

Serge Ferrari Group membranes to create architectural “flowers” 

The design of the IFF International Finance Center draws inspiration from the natural rhythm and cultural richness of the Greater Bay. It takes its reference from the kapok flower—symbol of combined strength and softness—to shape an architectural element with an organic visual effect. The overall building plan adopts an irregular fan-shaped layout, made up of four curved volumes resembling petals, creating a striking visual dynamic. 

The building’s facade incorporates more than 20,000 m² of PTFE fiberglass membrane Tenseo Frontside GFM-52 in metalic silver from the Serge Ferrari Group. Thanks to the combination of tensioned fabrics and steel frameworks, the building features a transparent envelope with pronounced tensions. The composite material, with a 52% openness rate, ensures high light transmission and creates a soft, warm atmosphere that resonates with its surroundings. At night, when the lighting comes into play, the facade offers visitors a unique visual experience. 

Discreet beauty: textile resonance and hospitality 

Facing the IFF, the Lingnan Oriental Hotel was designed with a focus on Oriental refinement and nature, in harmony with the river culture and the identity of Nansha district. Here again, Serge Ferrari Group membranes play a key role. Combined with glass and aluminum panels, they soften the façade, bringing warmth and fluidity to the architectural lines, and creating a welcoming and elegant atmosphere.
 

The Tenseo Frontside GFM-52 membrane is also used here, encouraging the flow of light and the blending of indoor and outdoor spaces. More than a simple functional protection, it embodies the spirit of Oriental hospitality. 

Tenseo Frontside GFM-52: where technology and aesthetics meet 

As an ideal textile solution for large-scale architectural projects, the Tenseo Frontside GFM-52 membrane offers numerous advantages within this project: 

• High flexibility allowing the creation of organic, curved forms 
• Optimal light management: soft diffusion during the day, luminous enhancement at night 
• Lightness and strength, reducing structural loads 
• Excellent durability against weather, wind, and climatic constraints 
• Environmental qualities that contributed to the buildings’ green certification 

The membrane’s durability also earned the project the “Green Building” certification, thereby fostering the coordinated development of architecture and environmental protection in Nansha district. 

They contributed to the project: 

• Architectural design: BIAD (Concept), TJAD (Engineering)
• Project construction: Z&T
• Photo credit: Yong-Eddy HAUNG