Architecture studio Foster + Partners creates a unique masterplan for the Hangzhou center and urban building in China that will be highlighting the skyscraper-based spine. It is based in Yuhang and the plans unveil that it will be laid out around a central axis that is described by the studio as a 'leafy spine.' This aims to increase the building's density as a public transport hub and will raise the size of the buildings towards the center axis.
Head of urban design at the studio Brunio Moser explains the plans and different zones, stating, "The masterplan is organised around a 2.5-kilometre central axis that runs the full length of the site, from north to south. The axis intersects with different bodies of water, generating five distinctive zones with unique characteristics. Each zone celebrates the city's relationship with water in its various forms, from streams and lakes to canals and wetlands."
Image Credit: Fosters + Partners
What's Driving This Trend
- Spine-based Central Design
- The unique masterplan for the Hangzhou center features a central axis referred to as a 'leafy spine' to increase building density as a public transport hub.
- Skyscraper-based Architecture
- The Hangzhou center's design includes raising the size of buildings towards the central axis, promoting urban development and creating a visually striking skyline.
- City-water Relationship
- The masterplan celebrates the city's connection with water, with five distinctive zones highlighting different bodies of water, such as streams, lakes, canals, and wetlands.
Who This Affects Most
- Architecture
- The unique masterplan in Hangzhou showcases a new approach to building design, emphasizing a central axis and skyscraper-based urban development.
- Urban Design
- The Hangzhou center's masterplan presents an opportunity for innovative urban design concepts, incorporating a spine-like axis and exploring the relationship between the city and water.
- Transportation
- The use of a central axis and emphasis on public transport in the Hangzhou center's masterplan opens up possibilities for disruptive innovation in transportation infrastructure and connectivity.
