Project Overview

Introduction: Creating a Memorable Landmark Through Lightweight Architecture

Modern tourism destinations increasingly require more than functional buildings. Iconic landscape structures have become an important part of visitor experience, brand identity, and cultural storytelling.

Located in Kunming, Yunnan, the Fenglong Bay International Tourism Resort features a landmark structure inspired by the soaring wings of a phoenix.

The project uses ETFE membrane architecture to transform a cultural concept into a lightweight architectural form. Through the combination of advanced membrane technology and organic geometry, the structure creates a visually striking destination that connects natural surroundings, cultural symbolism, and visitor experience.

Why Membrane Structures Are Ideal for Scenic and Cultural Landscapes

Landscape and tourism projects often face unique design challenges.

Unlike conventional buildings, landmark structures must achieve both functional and emotional value. They need to provide comfortable public spaces while creating memorable visual identities.

Tensile membrane structures offer several advantages for these applications:

Lightweight Visual Expression

The low weight of membrane materials allows architects to create large and expressive forms with reduced structural complexity.

This makes it possible to develop flowing shapes inspired by nature, animals, and cultural symbols.

Organic Architectural Forms

Unlike rigid construction materials, membrane systems can achieve smooth curves, dynamic surfaces, and freeform geometries.

This flexibility makes them particularly suitable for:

• Theme parks
• Scenic resorts
• Cultural pavilions
• Landscape attractions
• Public gathering spaces

Harmony Between Architecture and Nature

The translucency of ETFE allows natural light to pass through the structure, creating a softer relationship between the built environment and surrounding landscape.

Phoenix Wings Design Concept: Transforming Cultural Symbolism into Architecture

The design inspiration comes from the phoenix, a traditional symbol representing beauty, renewal, and prosperity.

The challenge was to translate the dynamic movement of wings into a physical structure while maintaining structural efficiency and visitor comfort.

Through the use of ETFE membrane technology, the design achieves:

• Smooth flowing curves
• Lightweight visual appearance
• Large-span coverage
• Transparent architectural expression

The result is a landmark that communicates cultural meaning while remaining open and welcoming to visitors.

Engineering Features of the ETFE Membrane Structure

Lightweight Structural System

ETFE is significantly lighter than traditional glazing materials, allowing engineers to reduce the supporting structure while achieving expansive architectural forms.

The lightweight characteristic provides greater freedom for creating complex landmark geometries.

High Transparency and Visitor Experience

One of the defining characteristics of ETFE is its excellent light transmission performance.

The translucent membrane creates a bright and immersive environment where natural sunlight interacts with the architectural form.

For tourism and landscape projects, this helps create:

• Comfortable visitor spaces
• Unique visual experiences
• Dynamic day and night appearances

Weather Resistance for Outdoor Applications

Scenic landmark structures must withstand long-term outdoor exposure.

ETFE provides excellent resistance against:

• UV radiation
• Weather changes
• Environmental pollution
• Temperature variations

This makes it suitable for permanent outdoor installations in different climatic regions.

Applications of ETFE Membrane Structures in Tourism and Landscape Architecture

The Fenglong Bay Phoenix Wings project demonstrates how ETFE technology can support a wide range of destination architecture.

Similar applications include:

Scenic Resort Landmarks

Creating signature attractions that strengthen destination identity.

Theme Park Structures

Developing immersive environments with unique visual experiences.

Cultural Pavilions

Combining local cultural elements with contemporary architectural technology.

Landscape Canopies

Providing lightweight shelter while preserving openness and natural connection.

Public Art Installations

Using membrane structures as large-scale architectural sculptures.

Creating Long-Term Value for Destination Projects

For tourism developers and landscape architects, a landmark structure is not only a physical object but also an experience generator.

The Phoenix Wings project demonstrates how membrane architecture can:

• Enhance visitor attraction
• Strengthen destination branding
• Create social-media-friendly landmarks
• Provide flexible design possibilities

By combining engineering performance with artistic expression, ETFE membrane structures offer a new approach to modern cultural tourism architecture.

Conclusion: ETFE as a Tool for Architectural Storytelling

The Fenglong Bay Phoenix Wings project shows that ETFE membrane architecture extends beyond traditional building functions.

Through lightweight construction, high transparency, and flexible geometry, membrane structures enable designers to transform cultural ideas into recognizable architectural landmarks.

For scenic resorts, cultural destinations, and landscape projects, ETFE provides a powerful solution where engineering and creativity work together.