CAN Reveals Competition Design for former Paper Mill in Hangzhou
15 July 2022
CAN is pleased to reveal its competition design that brings together the revitalisation of a historic landmark and the creation of a multi-functional mixed-use destination in Hangzhou, China. The scheme aims to reshape the Hangzhou Canal business district and create a new landmark business card by blending the region’s old and new.
The site includes three plots. The former century-old paper mill was once a landmark in Hangzhou, witnessing the industrial development and lifestyle evolution of the region. As the birthplace of Hangzhou artisan culture, the design brief calls for the simultaneous renewal of urban interface and culture. The scheme comprises a shopping mall, a commercial street, two high-end office towers of 100 meters and 150 meters, and a hotel. Located at the intersection of several major transportation networks and close to the Canal business district, the site enjoys distinct geographical advantages and economic strengths.
“The site offers an opportunity to interweave the industrial heritage, matching nostalgic connotations of an industrial past with modern simplicity. Our design blends old and new by showcasing the simultaneous renewal of urban interface and culture. Urban design affects the way we experience urban spaces, it should always be in resonance in the collective memory and create a strong relationship with the environment,” said Gary Xiong, Director at CAN.
The design takes the traditional Chinese scroll as the core concept, forming a hazy paper canvas and displaying a long roll of landscape pictures with national charm. The design expresses a mix of historical and contemporary elements that combines the past and the present. The scheme preserves the historical site while creating a new and vibrant complex.
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The scheme reflects the importance of the historic Paper Mill and the Grand Canal in Chinese cultural and natural landscapes, and to create a vibrant, contemporary landmark. The Origami-inspired design corresponds with the river flow of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, creating a poetic interpretation of the region’s symbolic identity. While echoing the Hangzhou Grand Theatre, the scheme expresses an innovative way to showcase the traditional culture and encourage interaction between visitors across different spaces.
The design features a floating market that echoes the traditional night market of the Song Dynasty, and the main commercial spaces will be connected by link bridges and a sunken plaza. The water’s edge was necessary for trade, a logical place to live, and a driver of innovation. The main commercial space will be combined with the subway station to form a three-dimensional pedestrian commercial and leisure space.
The design aims to highlight the prosperous and bustling scene of Hangzhou’s business and trade in ancient times. The main commercial space will be combined with the subway station to form a three-dimensional pedestrian commercial and leisure space. The scheme aims to be a strong anchor point to connect the entire cultural development with the urban grain.
Project Detail
Location | Hangzhou, China
Client | Confidential
Sectors | Mixed-use, Retail, Towers
Scope | Masterplanning, Architecture
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