Following a closed competition, which included practices like OMA, KPF and Henn Architects, gmp Architects was selected to design the new CNPEC Headquarters in Longgang, Shenzhen, Southeast China. The power corporation called for a new building that could house over 4000 employees. Read more about gmp’s design proposal after the break.
The project is sited in a single block within Baolong Industrial Park, which incorporates a strict, orthogonal road grid. Three high-rises and a “plinth-type podium” are all arranged around a central garden, generating the major expression of the project. The garden will be open to the public, planted with palm trees and bamboo plants, and will intersect the development, creating footpaths.
From underneath the foyers of the high-rises, wide staircases lead to this garden, the space beneath it housing all service functions and circulation routes, including a bus terminal for employees. A three-storey ring links the three towers above the podium, housing shared functions like a canteen and conference area. The circular shape also acts as a colonnade, framing the landscape in the center to create a nice view from all parts of the building looking onto the planted roof of the podium.
Each tower differs in height, and they are positioned to maximize views from work places and create a distinct skyline. Vertically, the design of the facades is informed by the loadbearing and ventilation elements of the building, contributing to successful natural ventilation. Horizontally, each floor is combined with the one above, creating a collective, sculptural impression of the building.
At different levels, the design features “sky gardens.” Intermediate floors, which would otherwise be relegated to service installation, are turned into attractive areas for recreation and meeting. Each zone includes smaller canteens, sports areas, libraries and lounges. With the additions of these elements, the CNPEC policy of focusing on its employee health and well-being is reflected throughout the building design.
Architects
Design
Meinhard von Gerkan and Stephan Schütz with Stephan RewolleProject lead, competition
Marco Assandri, Su JunProject lead, implementation
Jiang Lin Lin, Marco AssandriTeam
Jan Peter Deml, Han Yue, Maarten Harms, Huang Han, Li Zheng, Liu Xiao, Mulyanto, Burkhard Pick, Qin Wei, Wei Zhilin, Xu Ji, Yuan Tao, Thilo Zehme, Zhang Yingying, Zhou Wei, Chen Junkun, Xu Yimin, Zhou YuanLocal Partner
SADIArea
327963.0 sqmProject Year
2015Photographs
Courtesy of gmp ArchitektenProject Year
2015Photographs
Courtesy of gmp ArchitektenArea
327963.0 m2
