Shanghai Disney Resort Tomorrowland   Shanghai, China

Working closely in an exciting collaboration, Walt Disney Imagineering and Grimshaw created a unique guest environment in Tomorrowland at the new Shanghai Disney Resort. Representing an optimistic vision of the future, the design of Tomorrowland incorporates the TRON Lightcycle Power Run attraction that is both visually stunning and viscerally engaging.

 

The arcing ETFE canopy traces the curves of the attraction, whilst shading guests below from sun and rain. Curving paths are punctuated by a diverse collection of native plants that create a series of exquisite and otherworldly landscapes. The natural and man-made elements blend together a rich palette of color and texture, marrying slick architectural forms with the organic beauty of plant life.

The land surrounding the attraction features a vibrant display of lighting effects, highlighting the land's architecture and kinetic energy.

As a cluster of jet packs twirl and a web of lights chase the zooming roller coaster trains, guests are able to look out over the land from multi-level pathways, strategically placed lookouts and thoughtfully placed seating and dining areas.

Creating a wholly new experience for Shanghai, the design team has created a one-of-a-kind experience for guests: a place for rich storytelling, a place for thrills and, above all, a place to celebrate the promise and excitement of the future.

“Working with Grimshaw resulted in a sophisticated and imaginative Tomorrowland distinct from any Disney Park.”

Bob Weis, President, Walt Disney Imagineering

The design of the prominent canopy, composed of a steel structure arrayed with pillows of ETFE, utilized form-finding software and the expertise of engineers in order to provide the lightest possible structure utilizing the least amount of raw materials possible. The resulting iconic structure is thus highly efficient, providing an armature for additional lighting effects and infrastructure while capturing the imaginations of guests.

Location
Shanghai, China

Project Type
Culture and Exhibition →

Client
Disney

Status
Complete

Year
2016

Photography
Stefen Chow