A new Northern district planned for the city of Yinchuan, incorporating a new central business district for the promotion of trade between Ningxia district and the Arab world. Historically the city of Yinchuan was a main stop on the ancient Silk Road and re-installing these ties was at the forefront of the clients mind. The traditional urban block has been rotated 45 degrees orienting along a north south axis to harvest natural ventilation, and minimise sun exposure. The result a dramatic elongated stretched plan and courtyards scooped into the urban environment. Creating defended public micro environments was an important factor in the scheme as bitter winters and summer sandstorms make the environment harsh to the pedestrian. A set of Public orientated buildings resides to the westerly border of the site with lakeside views, this includes a celebratory public square and a place for people to congregate.