Huaqiao Wusong Riverfront Master Plan, Kunshan, China

First Place, Invited International Competition 2009// with SWA Group Sausalito and Herrera Environmental Consultants

Project Area: 955,000 square meter// Building Area: 100,000 square meter

Program: Mixed Use// Open Space, Convention Center, Hotel, Commercial Retail and Office.

In 2008, the competition host, Huaqiao International Service Business Park, called for ideas for a new 955,000sm waterfront district at a key oxbow portion of the Wusong River in order to support the area's bustling economy while creating public amenities and open space. Decades of industrial development along the river have resulted in a legacy of polluted water and a decimated riparian habitat. The winning scheme by SWA Group, in conjunction with Ojanen Chiou Architects and Herrera Environmental Consultants, proposes a localized bioremediation program to improve the river water quality to a level that meets basic safety standards, and help restore the local ecology. Per SWA's master plan, a wetland treatment park is situated upstream from the main development zone where water is channeled through a series of pools for purification, then discharged to an inner bay encompassed by recreation areas such as beaches, trails, gardens, plazas and fountains, a riparian edge for wildlife habitat, and a series of commercial buildings including a Forum, hotel, retial zone, and villas as the centerpiece of the entire development.

The Forum & Hotel complex designed by Ojanen Chiou Architects seeks to exemplify the adaptive, ecological spirit and philosophy of the new Huaqiao Business Park while retaining a strong connection to local culture and traditions. The program includes •Forum: 20,000sm; Conference rooms, training center, lobby/exhibition area, VIP rooms, café, restaurant/bar, parking, service areas. •Hotel: Hotel: 39,500sm; 345 guest rooms, public lobby, banquet hall, entertainment zone, shopping and amenities, parking, service areas. •Villas: 3,200sm; 10 villas with lodging and meeting spaces for corporate clients and 1220sm clubhouse.

The Forum's architecture, evoking a water bird, embodies ecological rejuvenation and stands as a beacon of inspiration. Drawing from local cultural heritage, the Hotel incorporates elements such as the meandering river's flow and traditional lattice designs. Meanwhile, the Villas provide modern renditions of Chinese canal houses on smaller islands. The entire complex prioritizes energy conservation, ecological sensitivity, and cultural integration. Core concepts include the symbolism of the water bird, versatile facilities, and the harmonious fusion of technology and culture within the landscape design.