The Sun Tower’s design weaves geometry with natural phenomena, creating a profound connection to its environment, especially in term of light. The building’s northern edge, for example, is aligned with the noon sun’s trajectory during the equinoxes, when solar beams appear to slice through the conical volume. The outdoor theatre’s axis on the other hand, points toward the summer solstice sunrise, while the entrance tunnel aligns with the winter solstice sunset. At the top, the convex roof, oriented towards the sunlight of the midday summer solstice, further roots the structure in an eternal dialogue with celestial rhythms.

This cosmic connection extends beyond form. Facing the ocean, the building’s concave inner shell doubles as a natural sound collector, amplifying the sea’s rhythmic melodies. Visitors seated in the amphitheatre, nestled at the building’s base, are immersed in the sights and sounds of the waves. When it’s not hosting performances, the amphitheatre’s stage transforms into a tranquil space with misting fountains synchronized to the ocean tides, celebrating the 24 Solar Terms of the Chinese traditional lunar calendar. Concentric elliptical rings etched into the seashell-shaped plaza that radiates towards the sea mimic planetary orbits further merging cultural symbolism with natural forces. During equinoxes, a water channel transversing the rings transforms the building into a giant solar clock: as the shadow of the tower’s northern edge tracks the channel’s path, it intersects the rings on the hour.

Engineered in collaboration with Arup, the Sun Tower is as functional as it is symbolic. Constructed with two layers of slanted white concrete shells, the structure is reinforced by an intricate network of horizontal slabs and ramps that brace its dynamic form, ensuring for durability against coastal conditions while fostering a seamless connection to the oceanfront.

Between the shells lies the Digital Exhibition Space, a spiraling journey upwards that adapts effortlessly to new displays. Unfilled tie holes and embedded ceiling points allow for flexible arrangements, furthering the space’s relevance and responsiveness to evolving dialogues on issues that embrace community, environment, and culture. Above the exhibition spaces, the Library offers a sanctuary for knowledge and quiet reflection. Visitors can peruse through traditional and digital books while gazing out over expansive ocean views, amplified by a mirrored ceiling that reflects and reframes the surrounding seascape.

At the tower’s summit, a semi-outdoor observation deck, named the Phenomena Space, invites introspection. Undefined in purpose, the space features an oculus framing the sky, where rainwater is collected into a small swirling pool. This poetic feature serves as a timepiece, with the water’s movement marking the passage of the hours from dawn to dusk.

As expected, the Sun Tower embraces sustainable practices. Relying on passive cooling strategies such as cross-ventilation, the chimney effect, and thermal mass, the building minimizes energy use while maintaining comfort. Fresh air tunnels and airflow-enhancing features reduce the need for mechanical cooling especially during the summer months, creating a climate-conscious space that harmonizes with its environment.

By drawing from ancient wisdom while employing contemporary design, this "lighthouse" not only guides but also reminds us of our place within the universe’s grand rhythms, where the boundaries of time, space, and architecture dissolve into a seamless harmony.