Photo: Yang Chaoying

A unique art museum design has opened its doors in Northern China.

Inspiration for the museum came from the idea of rocky mountain peaks.

The building is one of four major structures designed for Datong New Citys cultural plaza.

Aerial View of Datong Art Museum by Foster + Partners

Photo: Yang Chaoying

Visitors enter the urban living room by following diagonal paths created in the landscaping of the site.

The walkways lead them through ramps and into a sunken plaza used for outdoor events.

Once inside, the mezzanine provides views down into the Grand Gallery.

Datong Art Museum by Foster + Partners

Photo: Yang Chaoying

More exhibition areas with climate-controlled spaces can be found along the perimeter of the museum.

The architects took special care when designing spaces for education.

The structure brings light and a column-free interior to the Grand Gallery but also enhances its surroundings.

Interior of Datong Art Museum by Foster + Partners

Photo: Yang Chaoying

Interior of Datong Art Museum by Foster + Partners

Photo: Yang Chaoying

Roof Closeup of Datong Art Museum by Foster + Partners

Photo: Yang Chaoying

Datong Art Museum by Foster + Partners

Photo: Yang Chaoying

Roof Closeup of Datong Art Museum by Foster + Partners

Photo: Yang Chaoying

Roof Closeup of Datong Art Museum by Foster + Partners

Photo: Yang Chaoying

Datong Art Museum by Foster + Partners

Photo: Yang Chaoying