Project

How can local identity guide urban regeneration?

The project rethinks the Yantian Old Market area as a layered urban system shaped by its unique context where mountain, sea, harbor, city, and food culture converge.

Rather than treating the site as a single-function destination, the proposal builds on the concept of “five flavors” to structure a diverse mix of programs and experiences. These elements translate into spatial strategies that connect ecological systems, public space, and economic activity.

To govern a big country is like cooking small food, so is governing a small city. The old market is a famous beach market in the Pearl River Delta. It still attracts early adopters. We compare the urban charm of Yantian to flavor of dishes. The broad sense of "flavor" of Yantian style can be seen in the territory of Yantian. The charming flavor of Yantian is not a single element of sea, port, mountain or city but the unique combination formed by these elements, and the old market town area is exactly where the five elements meet. Reconcile the five flavours: expand the service function architecture of “mountain flavour”, “sea flavour”, “city flavour”, “umami flavour” and “Hong Kong flavour”, and create a brand-new full-process experience space. 4D cooking: the “super fresh ring” structure that fills the “five flavors” service function is the basic frame, anchors landmarks, raises slow-moving vehicles, and sinks to create a car-free coastline. Taste in 8 key nodes: create 8 taste nodes along the “Super Fresh Circle”: The landmark hotel and the Tanka Cultural Center are the core buildings. The Salt crystal of Yantian is the architectural design concept, and the folds of the waves washing the beach are the podium and landscape design concepts.

At the waterfront, new landmarks define a contemporary harbor identity, while the inner areas preserve the fine-grain structure of the existing market. Around the typhoon shelter, public spaces and cultural programs reinforce the memory and character of the old harbor.The result is a regeneration strategy that builds on existing qualities, transforming local culture into a driver for future urban development.

Identity as foundation.
Culture as catalyst.

Client

Shenzhen Yantian District City Renewal and Land Development Bureau

Program

Urban Regeneration Masterplan for 150 ha with 32 sqm building design

Stages

2021 Masterplan Concept

Team

MLA+, Layout

Awards

2021 International Competition 1st Prize