Xi'an Hangwei Hi-Tech Software New City Project
Synthesize | Identity | Technology
This location in the Xi’an software district is unique in that it is adjacent to the 3rd Ring Road and a gateway to the Xi’an Software District, therefore becoming an anchor point and a highly visible icon for the city of Xi’an.
The office tower anchors the entrance of the site as an idea of progression and fluidity. It is an iconic statement that appears to be multiple ideas working together. The views to the north and west are optimized by a park while to the east it embraces the SOHO tower as a symbolic bridge of creation and productivity; an idea of present and future. The users of the SOHO tower are the incubators for the future of the software district while the users of the office tower continue in the daily progression of Xi’an’s Software District’s identity. The monumental bridge connection is an iconic gateway image that symbolizes this idea, a highly recognizable image as day to day commuters drive by on the adjacent highway.
While the office and SOHO towers are a high volume, elegant statement, the villas to the south are an energetic conclusion of the loop of progressive development. Rising much lower than their corporate counterparts, they are connected in a green investment that is a visible explanation that synergizes the idea of cohesion of S, M, L, XL in one situation. This expresses the idea of collaboration in an ever present goal towards advancement, understanding, and respectful outlook of the future.
In the center of all these constructed spaces is an open plaza and sunken courtyard that completes the formula of collaboration and cohesion. The vehicular circulation and drop offs are mingled in the basement levels, separated from the designated pedestrian circulation on the ground level with paved and planted open spaces.
Each building, each designed space, and each thought are a means to promote interaction of all users of the varying programs of the site, the software district, and the city of Xi’an.
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Our initial investigations explored what set of criteria would be appropriate for New City. We found that the architecture should have an identity to represent Xian's urban development, provide a social environment for its users that inspire innovation, provide a rational layout that maximizes access to nature and views, and use technology to develop a better sustainable present and future.
Create a Gateway Identity
Develop a uniquely symbolic landmark and gateway project to serve as the identity for the next phase of development.
Promote Social Interaction
The fluid typological designs and layout of the offices, SOHO, and villas reinforce a continuous layout that encourages accessibility and communication between its users. This shared interaction increases innovation.
Rational Arrangements
Multiple program elements packed into a tight buildable area further increase complexity. Through this arrangement and organization, we
can maximize the conditions of the site.
All study designs, final villa design, and partial tower exterior wall design by me.