Project Overview

According to the historical records, Copper Well Courtyard, formerly known as "Tongjing Courtyard,"(Tongjing refers to a surname), dates back to the Qing Dynasty when this area was the designated territory of the Plain Blue and Bordered Blue Banners of the Eight Banners system. The Tongjia clan was one of the prominent Manchu surnames. Situated west of Tiananmen Square in Beijing, only 200 meters from the National Centre for the Performing Arts, No. 6 Tongjing Courtyard project has been transformed from a traditional Beijing quadrangle dwellings into a vibrant office space, in this place with profound historical heritage.

Project Commissioner

Beijing Jinyu Real Estate Development Co., Ltd.

Project Creator

BAZUO Architecture Studio Co., Ltd.

Team

Zhang Shuhui, Wang Miao, Guo Wanglong, Zhou Yaru, Gao Nan, Li Yiran

Project Brief

To the south, a passage corridor extends, taking inspiration from the "copied hand veranda" of ancient architecture (A common type of corridor in traditional Chinese architecture, frequently found in courtyard complexes, linking with the festoon gate). Its aim is to create a meandering path that evokes a tranquil atmosphere, doubling as a visual backdrop for the main house and transforming into a playground for children. The design features a movable perforated aluminum sheet partition that can open and close, maintaining the serenity of the landscape while providing spacious and bright areas when open. The western side functions both as a conference room and a showcase window for office presentations. It incorporates electrically misted glass, capable of switching between transparent and misted modes as required, to accommodate both enjoying the scenery and ensuring privacy during meetings. The courtyard harmonizes with the central grand Toona sinensis tree, embodying the courtyard's essence and the design theme centered around the“courtyard”. The ground is adorned with traditional small pavilion clay brick slices interspersed with landscape lights of similar dimensions. Depending on the number of people, the courtyard can flexibly transform into an activity space or a water courtyard, reflecting the surrounding scenery and enhancing the overall aesthetic of the environment.

Project Innovation/Need

Careful attention has been paid to the design of visual layers. From the ordinary perspective of the alleyway (1.7 meters high), the original ambiance of street life is preserved; Yet, when the view is elevated to the rooftop level (4 meters high), a continuous rooftop landscape unfolds, revealing another side of Beijing—referred to as "the second Beijing." The rooftop not only provides an ideal spot to experience the changing seasons but also to appreciate the surrounding staggered gable roofs. To the east, one can admire famous landmarks such as the National Centre for the Performing Arts and the Great Hall of the People. The northern and eastern sides serve as the primary office areas, designed to provide a scenic backdrop for work. They feature automatic aluminum alloy partitions that adjust lighting and sight as needed.

Design Challenge

Due to its unique proximity to the Forbidden City, the renovated sections of this project are acutely sensitive to the surrounding environment, nearby alleyways, and internal rooftop structures. Based on the "dialogue between old and new" design philosophy, traditional materials, structures, and techniques are utilized. Local artisans and craftsmen skilled in ancient architecture are enlisted to authentically restore the traditional quadrangle dwellings to their original form. Concurrently, the original courtyard layout, water features, internal facades, and interiors have been refurbished. This approach seeks to harmoniously integrate contemporary methods with traditional architecture. This harmonious blend is further showcased by the preservation of traditional architectural styles, integrating modern office spaces into a flexible, multifunctional area. Next to the alleyways, traditional wooden doors adorn the entrance, giving way to modern glass doors inside, symbolizing the transition between old and new spaces. The rooftop retains its traditional tile form, while below, the facades incorporate modern materials like glass and aluminum profiles. This blend pays homage to traditional architecture with simulated wooden and landscape-patterned movable partitions. The interior roof structure features wooden structural beams, complemented by white furniture and partitions, honoring tradition while ensuring a bright environment. The new building's lightness and transparency starkly contrast with the old one’s solidity and weight, achieving a complementary balance in form, scale, and function.

Sustainability

The renovation and design of this project are based on Passive Haus principles, integrating high thermal efficiency and passive climate control techniques. Utilizing a new roof insulation layer and a double-glazed window system, the absorption of heat during summer is minimized, enhancing the building's climate adaptability. Additionally, underfloor heating during colder periods ensures indoor comfort during winter.
Moreover, through the integration of veranda spaces and open facades, a system of cross ventilation has been established to effectively lower energy demands, thus championing energy conservation and emission reduction efforts. Concurrently, the design maximizes natural light penetration, reducing reliance on artificial illumination, with all lighting fixtures upgraded to energy-efficient LED systems. Sanitary facilities feature water-saving fixtures, including low-flow toilets. The selection of locally sourced materials minimizes transportation costs and reduces carbon emissions during construction. This environmentally conscious approach not only ensures a low-carbon footprint but also enhances the overall spatial experience for users. The project aspires to influence lifestyle choices by prioritizing health, environmental sustainability, and recyclability.

Architecture - Public and Institutional - International

This award celebrates the design process and product of planning, designing and constructing form, space and ambience that reflect functional, technical, social, and aesthetic considerations. Consideration given for material selection, technology, light and shadow. 
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