The Taiyuan Botanical Garden Domes in Taiyuan, capital of North China's Shanxi province [Photo/Shanxi Evening News]

The Taiyuan Botanical Garden Domes in the city of Taiyuan, capital of North China's Shanxi province, was recently shortlisted for the 2021 Structural Awards, the world's leading awards for structural engineering excellence. 

The Taiyuan Botanical Garden complex was nominated for the award for structural artistry (building structures) and the award for construction innovation. 

Designed by the Arcplus Institute of Shanghai Architectural Design & Research, the complex consists of three glass domes where tropical, desert, and rare plants grow.

It's the first large-scale exhibition greenhouse with a glulam structure in China, as well as the largest span structure of its kind in the country.

According to judges, "The complex geometry inherent in this architectural form made parametric design and structural optimization of paramount importance…the concept is based on land restoration and the choice of materials creates a harmony between nature, architecture and structure. The project pushes the boundaries of structural engineering, materiality, and construction technique."

The final list of winners will be announced in November.