First of two models produced as an entry to the “Shenzen Opera House Competition” in 2020. Having the proposed building in gold was a request from the client and we envisioned a contrasting, dark wood to elevate it further. Smoked oak has an interesting, linear texture that was used to imitate the horizontal floors on the context buildings. The initial experiments with a golden tinted water feature competed with the main building and dissolved the simple yet clear contrast of the building and its surroundings. At the end, a clear acrylic on the top of the smoked oak veneer worked out best on this stylish and dramatic model.