The masterplan for the site on the tip of Wenzhou Qi Du Island celebrates the ‘water city’ of Wenzhou, introducing a network of canals, pedestrianised streets and gardens that overlook the river, with views towards the city centre and surrounding mountains, creating a memorable place and destination for the wider Wenzhou district. Three primary canals organise the site with the principal canal extended from the existing masterplan, the northern canal creating a new marina park and the southern canal animating the residential garden.
The signature towers, 350m and 160m tall, stand as iconic beacons for Wenzhou Qi Du Island, strong in their simplicity and elegance, reminiscent of Cong vases in form and shimmering with glass fins mimicking the movement of the Nanxi River in the sun. Office, Hotel and Serviced Apartments provide the commercial heart of the development supported by the retail village, mall and conference centre within the Tower podium. Floating as lanterns in the water the retail village is a collection of 2-4 story boutique fashion stores with glass pavilion cafes and restaurants creating a destination shopping district. Approaching the retail village, grand staircases raise people above the lower canal, flanked on either side by waterfalls, for arrival at a unique and tranquil place. The 20,000m² shopping mall below the village connects directly to the lower canal walk, office lobby and retail village via sunken gardens. 1800 car parking spaces are accessed directly from the lower canal level allowing the retail village to remain a pedestrianised precinct.
Residential towers, 120m and 100m tall, respond to the sculptural strength of Mt Yandang, and craft of antique Cong vases. Primary views to the south focus on the drama of the busy city while zen views to the north capture the grandeur and mystery of the mountains. A new marina supports private crafts, water taxis and ferry connections to the city. The marina park is a destination for family gathering with panoramic views of the river, mountains, city and Jiangxin Temple. Following the development of the masterplan, three alternative characters for the signature towers are investigated using concepts of light on the river surface, smooth river stones and waterfalls between sculpted rock faces.
Aerial View
View from Wenzhou City
View from the North
Night View from the North
Aerial View from the East
Aerial View from the East
View of the Central Canal and Retail Pavilions
Illustrative Roof Plan
River Reflection Scheme
Waterfall Scheme
River Stone Scheme
