Image: The project is part of the new cultural district

Five design teams have been shortlisted for the Xiqu Centre - the first of 17 proposed new landmark buildings forming part of the West Kowloon Cultural District in Hong Kong.

Due for completion by 2016, the arts complex is to be built on a site on the eastern edge of the district and will incorporate a 1,100-seat main theatre and 400-seat small theatre.

A Tea House hosting performances for audiences numbering of up to 280 is also proposed, along with ancillary training and education facilities.

The shortlisted design teams include: Foster + Partners with O Studio Architects; BTA and RLP Company; Mecanoo architecten/Leigh and Orange; and Safdie Architects.

Wong and Ouyang (HK) in collaboration with Diamond and Schmitt have also been named as a shortlisted design team by the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority (WKCDA).

WKCDA executive director for performing arts Louis Yu said: "There has been a fantastic response to our plans for the Xiqu Centre from design teams from across the world."

Schematic designs will now be submitted by 5 October, with a jury panel to conclude its assessment of the shortlisted entries by the end of the year.

Click here for more information about the West Kowloon Cultural District.

Image: KyleRGiggs