Tianfu Fusion Research Center by CSWADI: A Circular Design for Nuclear Science

The Tianfu Fusion Research Center, designed by CSWADI (China Southwest Architectural Design and Research Institute), is a 38,000 m² office building completed in 2026 in Chengdu, China. The project houses the Tianfu Fusion Research Center of the Southwest Institute of Physics (SWIP), part of the China National Nuclear Corporation. The architectural design, led by chief designer Liu Yi with deputies Ma Jun and Feng Ting, draws inspiration from the physics of nuclear fusion and the traditional Sichuan 'Tianjing' (light courtyard). The design uses circles as a unifying motif for both architecture and landscape, symbolizing the structure from microscopic particles to the macroscopic universe. The project includes extensive design teams for architecture, structure, MEP, intelligent buildings, facade lighting, curtain wall, landscape, construction technology, and interiors. The building is categorized as an office building and was featured on ArchDaily, with photography by Arch-Exist. The project was curated by Han Shuang. The design emphasizes the integration of scientific mission with architectural expression, creating a facility that reflects the cutting-edge research in controlled nuclear fusion.