Modern urban living, commerce and tourism are a part of the new multi-district redevelopment plans for Nanjing’s Yangtze Redevelopment. Selected by Beijing based MCC Real Estate Company, SOM has imagined a scheme that will create a new area of neighborhoods, shopping districts and corporate skyscrapers embodying a new identity for Nanjing and a mixed-use cityscape for its people.
SOM Director Douglas Voigt said, “The core concept of the SOM plan for Nanjing Xiaguan is making connections. Connecting the city to the river. Connecting the best of urban living to nature. Connecting under–utilized land to value creation that will increase growth, tourism and prosperity. Connecting Nanjing’s rich heritage with China’s rising economy.”
The once neglected two kilometer waterfront area situated between the river levee and the old city wall of the historic Chinese city will be transformed by SOM’s dynamic winning design. SOM has based their plan on convenient access to transite, bicycle-friendly design and walkability. Initially the redevelopment will be a collection of new neighborhoods energized by mixed uses that vary in scale, creating commercial hubs within each neighborhood. An enclosed weaving pedestrian street will provide additional connectivity between neighborhoods and views of the Yangtze River.
SOM global city design partner Philip Enquist said, “We are delighted to be working with MCC Real Estate and the city officials of Nanjing to help move this great historic city to the forefront as an important business, tourism and quality-of-life leader in the New China. We are flattered that they have accepted our concepts for a dramatic new signature riverfront.”
