Located on Meizhou Island, the hometown of Mazu, the World Mazu Forum Permanent Site stands as a beacon of cultural heritage in Putian, China. Mazu culture, widely revered across the southeastern coastal regions of China, is deeply intertwined with the vast ocean, symbolizing peace, guidance, and hope. With over 300 million believers across 45 countries and regions worldwide, the Mazu Cultural Forum hosted here serves as a pivotal platform for cultural exchange and mutual development among countries and regions participating in the Belt and Road Initiative.

Comprising an exhibition center, hotel, and media center, the entire architectural complex harmoniously integrates with the island’s environment. The undulating rooftops evoke the dynamic ocean waves, while the asymmetrical pitched roofs resemble the flying eaves of local dwellings. Inspired by the poetic imagery of “moonlight over the sea,” the lighting seamlessly blends architectural nightscapes with the surrounding environment. This creates a grand atmosphere with an elegant aura, visually pleasing and comfortable, while respecting the natural surroundings.

To minimize light pollution, the project exclusively employs environmentally friendly LED lighting solutions of ROLEDS. This includes 1,900 architectural floodlights and 900 landscape lights, featuring the MatriX series floodlights and wall washers. The facade lighting utilizes gradual shifts in color temperature to enhance visual depth, imbuing the entire structure with a lively and dynamic aesthetic. Small floodlights highlight the characteristic flying eaves of the roofs, defining the unique features of seaside architecture. The main facade columns are illuminated with luminaires of white color temperature from the base, symbolizing the sacred and serene characteristics of Mazu culture.

ROLEDS meticulously simulated and field-tested the beam angles of light fixtures to control glare effectively, ensuring minimal light spillage. The lighting system operates through computer remote modules, enabling zone-specific and time-based adjustments to brightness and grayscale. This smart control not only enhances energy efficiency and safety but also integrates the architecture harmoniously with the changing hues of the sky.

This project exemplifies a blend of cultural significance, functional design, and sustainable practices, setting a new standard for architectural harmony and environmental stewardship in coastal regions.