Guangzhou Huadu Huashan Water Purification Plant

With the design theme “Water and Wood Tsinghua · Huashan Splendid,” the Huashan Water Purification Plant Landscape Project reimagines the relationship between industrial infrastructure and public space, transforming a functional facility into an engaging civic environment.
The landscape concept is deeply inspired by the natural contours of the surrounding mountainous terrain. These topographical lines are abstracted into flowing spatial forms, shaping the entire site with a sense of organic continuity. At the core of the design is a central water body, filled with purified water directly from the plant itself—a symbolic and physical representation of the site's purpose. This serene focal point not only enhances visual appeal but also encourages public interaction with clean water, reinforcing environmental awareness.
Surrounding the central feature is a dynamic looped trail system that weaves through varied activity zones. These include open lawns, shaded seating areas, and community gathering spaces, creating a multi-layered experience that caters to diverse user needs. A standout design element is the repurposing of the plant’s high-altitude exhaust tower. Once purely industrial, it has been artistically reinterpreted with architectural cladding and immersive night lighting to become a sculptural landmark, offering both orientation and identity to the park.
Functionality is further enhanced through a comprehensive sports program. The landscape incorporates a full-length running track, multi-generational fitness equipment, and dedicated courts for ball sports, enabling health-focused recreation across all age groups. The planting palette emphasizes clarity and elegance, aiming for year-round visual interest through evergreen species and a sequence of seasonal blossoms, ensuring the space remains lively in every season.
The completed project has significantly enhanced the quality of life for surrounding residents, turning what was once a restricted industrial zone into a beloved urban green space. It has successfully overturned traditional perceptions of water treatment facilities, demonstrating how infrastructure can be seamlessly integrated with ecological design, public leisure, and community wellness.
This project serves as a pioneering case study demonstrating how thoughtful design can transform essential infrastructure into a vibrant and inclusive part of the urban fabric, while equally embodying sustainability, functionality, and cultural resonance.