LAGUARDA.LOW Architects — OCT Bao’an Waterfront — New Yock City/Shenzhen
New York City-based LAGUARDA.LOW Architects has been awarded first prize in an international competition conducted by OCT Group for the design of OCT Bao’an, a new large-scale planned waterfront development in Shenzhen’s Bao’an district in China. With stunning views of Qianhai Bay, Laguarda.Low’s master plan and design encompasses a 128-acre site and creates dynamic spaces for business, retail and entertainment.
As both Master Planner and Master Architect for the project, and in collaboration with renowned landscape design firm SWA, the LAGUARDA.LOW Architects’ design integrates nature, recreation and culture into a new urban setting. The site is divided into four primary zones, connected by pedestrian paths, integrated waterscapes, and landscaped promenades. The four zones include a new Urban Business District, a multi-level Retail Park, a Culture Heritage Park and a Book Market. LAGUARDA.LOW’s plan positions a multi-level retail village at the center of the site, surrounded by four residential towers to the northeast; three office towers to the southeast; a hotel to the south; an indoor mall to the west; and a new performance hall and an exhibition facility to the north, across from the city’s green belt. A central loop connects the various zones and provides access to parking below.