QuJiang Wetland Competition, Masterplan, 2011 Read more {{currentSlide}}/{{total}}
The reinvention of Xian from a historical conservation zone into an international arts hub was a strong theme in our proposal. Fundamental ideas drew from a palette rich in cultural heritage while acknowledging the desire to empower the next generation of Chinese Artists and designers. The precedence of major Arts investments such as Bilbao and to a smaller extent the capital of culture developments for Glasgow and Liverpool were a strong example of inner city redevelopment we could cherry pick. Research was also undertaken into the 18th century European town development with pedestrian access a priority limits were placed on comfortable walking distances between museums located within each of the three zone
The Landscape has retained the existing topography of this valley site with the water dropping from east to west along 3km of wetland. To the far right of the site Plot 7 is sensitively situated on a historical axis between the Pagoda to the North West and the Han cemetery mounds to the south east references to the Jade Dragon from Han dynasty resulting in a fragmented island approach. Reference to these mounds is incorporated in-between a continuous ribbon of water stretching the full length of the 4km site. The Landscape segments are stretched into place almost as twine is reeled onto spindles the museum zones acting as pivots in this process. Special ribbed strips have been incorporated in the hope to harvest the force of weathering, permitting the continuous morphing of the landscape over time. Museum views are arranged to maximize historical landmarks on the horizon paying respect to Xian’s history while also allowing vegetation throughout the site to morph colours during seasons allowing for visitors encountering new experiences on multiple trips.