[MIL25]




Key Dates

1 August 2024 - Launch Deadline
31 October 2024 - Standard Deadline
14 February - Extended Deadline
21 February - Judging
6 March - Winners Announced

Project Overview

Nestled in Guangdong Province, Zhuhai City is blessed with a remarkable geographical setting, where majestic mountains meet the shimmering sea, marking it as one of the earliest origins of the Maritime Silk Road. This historic city has nurtured a vibrant cultural tapestry, exuding a distinctive charm that captivates all who visit.

The current project embodies the philosophy of honouring the past while embracing the future. At its heart lies the traditional "academy," which serves as the guiding framework for the design. By weaving together the rich essence of local history and culture, this initiative aims to create a contemporary landscape that radiates a unique Oriental allure.

Project Commissioner

Zhuhai Gao Xing Urban Construction Co., Ltd.

Project Creator

Jingyue Design Engineering (Zhuhai) Co., Ltd

Team

Lead Designer:
Jingqiang Wang
Lei Xiong
Wenjie Su

Design Team:
Youlin Situ
Xiuzhen Wang
Yizhong Tang

Project Brief

Through the innovative integration of modern design techniques and the elegant elements of traditional academies, the project offers a space that is not only steeped in cultural heritage but also reflects the aesthetics of modern living. Visitors will find themselves enveloped in a serene atmosphere, providing a much-needed respite in the midst of the city's vibrant energy. This integration of tranquillity and cultural richness invites exploration and engagement, creating an unforgettable experience for all who enter this beautifully designed space.

Throughout history, many ancient Chinese academies were thoughtfully situated in serene locations, away from the clamour of urban life, offering breathtaking natural vistas that fostered a sense of inner tranquillity for scholars. This particular case takes inspiration from the academy's enduring philosophy of "emulating nature." Nestled amid majestic mountains and placid waters, it features meticulously designed outdoor water elements and lush greenery. This harmonious environment not only invites visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature but also cultivates a profound sense of peace and connection with the world around them.

Project Need

As visitors step into the interior space, they are immediately greeted by an expansive open-plan layout, where a striking black-and-white colour scheme harmoniously intertwines with the architectural elements of a traditional academy.

This thoughtful design not only reflects the modern living experience of courtyard culture but also celebrates the magnificent allure of Eastern aesthetics. Upon closer inspection, one will notice the cleverly positioned screens that elegantly partition the space, enhancing the atmosphere while showcasing the refined beauty inherent in Chinese etiquette.

Furthermore, a carefully curated variety of lighting fixtures creates a captivating layered effect, illuminating the area with a warm and inviting glow.

Design Challenge

The reception lobby, a true testament to sophistication, features delicate and exquisite materials that contribute to an elegant texture, enveloping guests in a warm and dignified ambience as they arrive. A notable highlight is the installation art piece “Garden Lantern,” strategically positioned by the window.

This artwork seamlessly blends traditional lantern festival elements with a modern, locally inspired lighthouse, symbolizing vibrant energy and imbuing the space with a sense of vitality. Transitioning into the negotiation area and the water bar, guests are treated to full-length floor-to-ceiling windows that frame breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding natural scenery. Paired with meticulously chosen tables and chairs, these areas offer a stunning environment for socialization, exuding both elegance and relaxation.

As one moves through the corridors connecting the various spaces, one will find each passage thoughtfully designed to evoke creativity and uniqueness, contributing to a picturesque atmosphere throughout. Additionally, the children's play area stands out with a captivating theme inspired by the traditional performing art of shadow puppetry. This delightful space not only preserves the essence of Chinese folk culture but also offers children an engaging and interactive experience, filled with fun and imaginative exploration.

Sustainability

To foster an environmentally friendly, sustainable, and natural environment, this project employs a spacious layout design complemented by floor-to-ceiling windows. This architectural approach facilitates the introduction of abundant natural light and fresh air, thereby diminishing the reliance on artificial lighting and air conditioning systems.

Consequently, this strategy not only promotes energy conservation and carbon reduction but also enhances indoor air quality, resulting in a healthier atmosphere for visitors. In terms of material selection, this initiative emphasizes the use of resources sourced from the natural environment, which significantly reduces construction waste.

Moreover, the incorporation of durable materials such as wood veneers, jade, marble, antique bronze, and stainless steel minimizes the likelihood of damage that necessitates replacement or repair, thus preventing unnecessary resource depletion. Additionally, the extensive integration of vegetation and water features serves to purify the air and alleviate the urban heat island effect, while simultaneously providing guests with a tranquil and natural green space.




Open to all international projects this award celebrates innovative and creative building interiors, with consideration given to space creation and planning, furnishings, finishes, aesthetic presentation and functionality. Consideration also given to space allocation, flow, building services, lighting, fixtures, flooring, colours, furnishings and surface finishes.  


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