Project

Longhua District is located on the symbolic central axis of Shenzhen north of the Civic Center and Futian. However so far the district developed informally, as it was not part of the original Special Economic Zone. Its setting surrounded by green hills offers the opportunity to match the rising desire of Shenzhen people for a better living environment with close connections to nature.

The open space masterplan connects a number of independent parks into a landscape system that reaches to the nearby mountains, reservoir and river. Shenzhen’s iconic hills and the Guanlan River Eco Corridor will become accessible for recreational outdoor activities.
Urban design guidelines link the park system with the adjacent development plots in a way usually not achieved in China. The experience of the natural landscape will become part of everyday life, offering relief from hectic urban life, and giving people the opportunity to learn from, appreciate and care for their surroundings.
The project was supported by an ecological impact assessment to address storm water management, reduce the heat island effect, and positive ecological effects in order to create a healthy and ecological city environment.

Client

The Administrative Committee of Longhua New District, Shenzhen

Program

Open space masterplan and urban design for the 6,5km2 sub-center around Shenzhen’s North Railway Station

Stages

20115 Competition

Team

Markus Appenzeller, Martin Probst, Athina Papadopulous, Chris Rooney, Ana Skachokova, Brechtje Spreeuwers, Milena Zaklanovic
partner:MLA+, Openfabric, UPDIS

Awards

4th prize in the competition