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The concept for the Fengxian Community Center originated from the traditional Chinese "Fang," or "unmoored boat," found in classical gardens. This double-pitched roof structure was designed to provide scenic views and passageways. Located along the Punan Canal, the design evokes the area's historical connection to boats. The building appears as a flat boat, with ground-level blocks for independent services and an upper level offering transparent, shared activity spaces with scenic views. The site design incorporates diverse sports fields, resembling small boats within the landscaped green areas, enhancing thematic continuity.
The project is adjacent to a main road on the north, bordered by the Canal Park on the east and west, and alongside the Punan Canal on the south. The main building is positioned near the urban road on the north side, while the south features a waterfront landscape connected by a promenade. This links activity areas, creating a lively sports park that interacts with the Canal Park. Public functions are in separate blocks on the ground floor, allowing public space to flow from the main road into the sports park. An observation tower offers panoramic views of the canal and contrasts with the church's bell tower to the east.
Sustainability and eco-compatibility are integral to the design. The use of pitched roofs and skylights maximizes natural light and heating, reducing reliance on air conditioning. A rainwater collection and water recycling system minimizes energy consumption. Locally sourced materials, such as wood for structural elements, reduce construction and transportation costs. The site design balances hard paving with green areas, protecting the canal's natural ecosystem.
The Fengxian Community Center, inspired by the traditional Chinese "Fang," integrates cultural heritage and site characteristics. It offers community services and shared spaces that reflect the city's spirit, enhancing connectivity with the canal and parks. The ground level includes independent functions like a 24-hour convenience store, public restrooms, and a café, which operate continuously and enrich public activities. The second floor features flexible shared spaces with an observation platform, providing panoramic views and serving as a community living room. The structural design uses a beam-column suspension system to create an open, flowing space. The façade, with lightweight green metal panels, blends with the surroundings while standing out visually. The south façade offers waterfront views, the east and west façades frame canal views, and the north façade faces the urban area. The observation tower is a landmark, offering sweeping views of the canal.
The design innovatively combines traditional elements with modern functionality, providing a familiar yet refreshing space for the community. The open ground floor and independent service functions address urban connectivity and social management. The flexible shared spaces enhance usability and can be reserved by citizens, helping operators create a model for future use. This project balances the needs of tourists and locals, enriching the community's cultural and social life.
Founded by architects Yuting Zhang, Pu Zhang, and landscape architect Shimin Cao, Studio RE+N (Re-Evolve Narrative Studio) is an emerging design firm with offices in Lishui and Shanghai. The name reflects the studio's commitment to "Re-Evolving" site-specific elements and "Narrating" the stories of places and their participants, achieving the regeneration of spaces and reinterpretation of the spirit of the place. Studio RE+N has garnered numerous awards internationally, including the Young Architecture Practice Award by Archiposition (2023), an Architizer A+ Award Special Mention (Unbuilt Commercial Category) (2024) for the Dalinggen Village Tea House, the AMP Architecture MasterPrize Winner (Unbuilt Cultural Category) (2023) for the Iceland Volcano Museum, the IDA International Design Gold Award (2023), and the A’Design Silver Award (2023). Their work has been showcased at the Venice Biennale, and their 'Being Heard' Exhibition was featured at the DesignTO Festival in 2024.
