Danish practice Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects have broken ground on an art gallery and clubhouse in southern China, built in the centre of a lake.

The building, located in the mountainous district of Gao Yao to the west of China’s third-largest city, Guangzhou, will be a 3,160sq m pavilion for a new development of villas at the base of the mountain.

The studio collaborated with a Feng Shui master to create their design and choose the exact on-site location, angles and entrance points.

“The concept derives from the project’s position at the heart of the site and is intended to enhance the views of the surrounding mountains, sky and water,” said the architects. “Three distinct spaces come together under one unifying roof, each with open panoramas across the water to the lush green landscape in all directions.

“Its sculptural presence and qualities are marked by a calligraphically simple gesture.”

The building will feature a curving roof, giving the pavilion a different appearance on all sides and acting as "a fifth façade." Exteriors will be clad in vertical panels of grey granite reflecting the sun and the movement of the water.

Internally, the space will be completely free of columns, with the supporting structural elements concealed within the external walls and glazed panoramic windows. This increases the light and space in the building.

The rooms, including an art lobby and lounge, will share one light oak floor, connecting them in a linear progression. Each space will offer a different view of the landscape outside.

Construction will soon begin, with work expected to be completed in early 2017.

Schmidt Hammer Lassen – who are also developing a mixed-use district in Shanghai – have collaborated with local studio Thomas Chow Architects and German structural engineer Dress & Sommer on the project. The identity of the client has not been revealed.