Design Fountain, Shazhou Youhuang Rice Wine Exhibition Centre, Suzhou
Inspired by one of China's most celebrated rice wine brands, this unique water installation transforms 1,724 traditional earthenware jars into a monumental public artwork.
The Challenge
Celebrating a Cultural Icon
The Shazhou Youhuang Rice Wine Exhibition Centre was created to honour one of China's most recognised rice wine producers and the rich cultural heritage associated with the region.
The client wanted a landmark installation that would immediately immerse visitors in the story of rice wine while connecting the different buildings across the exhibition centre. The result needed to feel authentic, culturally significant and visually unforgettable, transforming a traditional product into a contemporary visitor experience.
The Design Concept
Turning Tradition into Spectacle
Traditional Chinese rice wine is stored and matured in large earthenware jars. These iconic vessels became the foundation of the entire design concept.
Rather than displaying the jars as static objects, Oase transformed them into living water features. Two monumental pyramid structures were created using 1,724 carefully selected jars, each becoming part of a larger artistic composition inspired by the history and symbolism of rice wine production.
Water flowing from every jar, combined with atmospheric fog and carefully integrated lighting, creates a constantly changing experience that feels both traditional and contemporary.
Delivering the project
Creating a consistent water effect across more than 1,700 individual vessels required extensive engineering and product development.
Custom water nozzles were designed specifically for the project to ensure that water flowed evenly from every jar while preserving the natural appearance of the installation. The system was further enhanced through integrated fog effects and a 740-metre LED lighting installation that transforms the experience after dark.
The project also incorporated important cultural considerations. Working closely with the client, design elements were integrated to reflect traditional Chinese symbolism, including the nine-storey pyramid structures inspired by the cultural significance associated with the number nine and its linguistic connection to wine.
The Results
A Landmark Experience Rooted in Heritage
The completed installation delivers a striking balance between architectural simplicity and sensory impact.
During the day, the flowing water creates a sense of movement and tranquillity. After sunset, illuminated water, drifting fog and the scale of the installation create a dramatic spectacle that draws visitors into the exhibition centre.
The project has become one of the defining attractions of the venue, helping strengthen the visitor experience while creating a powerful visual expression of the brand's heritage and identity. The client has described the installation as an iconic part of the company's culture.
Key Project Highlights
1,724 traditional rice wine jars incorporated into the design
1,840 custom-engineered water nozzles
Integrated fog effects creating immersive atmosphere
740-metre LED lighting installation
Two nine-storey pyramid structures
Fountain concept inspired by local cultural heritage
Custom-designed water effects developed specifically for the project
Landmark attraction within the exhibition centre
Project fact sheet
- Project name:
- Shazhou Youhuang Rice Wine Exhibition Centre
- Country:
- China
- Year completion:
- 2021
- Environment:
- Public Space
- Fountain type:
- Freshwater Design Fountain
- Features:
- 1,724 Jars, 1,840 Custom Nozzles
- Key Effects:
- Water features, fog effects, architectural lighting
- Services:
- Consulting, design, manufacturing, engineering