NX CREATIVE PRESERVATION

The Nanxing Old Street Renovation project is an opportunity for the historical city to reintroduce its past to the younger generations. The goal of the project is to give the Nanxing Old Street a new identity while retaining its culture and historical elements. Thus “preservation” and “innovation” are the intertwined principles guiding the whole design process - preserving the old historical Jiangnan vernacular architecture in the area while innovating with modern design in the public sectors.



To enhance the existing street fabric, our design has redefined the plaza area, introduced new sitting area, widened sidewalks, retrofitted facilities and regulated the facade signages. In addition, we introduce the idea of water into the design equation because water has an inalienable relationship with the Jiangnan culture. We extracts the characteristics and different representation of water forms translating them into special design features such as water droplet sculpture, water ripples paving pattern, water lantern flowing on urban river and fluidity light installation alongside pedestrian walkway. With the creative design approaches, we are able to give a new fresh look to the area to attract the younger generations.



We also introduce different design strategies to reactivate the public space in the area. Applying a new topographic landscape surrounding the historical twin towers, we can increase usable space for the plaza. The new design will become the heart of the area which gives people space to sit, to dine, to take pictures and to enjoy performance. Furthermore, we bring the idea of a Chinese garden to the streets with a bridge-like structure filled with Chinese plants and flowers introducing a new perspective and new experience as if in a Chinese garden.



By introducing creative art, dynamic form and touch of colors to the old street, we hope to create a new identity and a new look to the place that people will love and respect.