Development of Suzhou 2017 WG47

Residential Building in Suzhou's Old Town

The project is situated in a key protected area of Suzhou's old town, surrounded by iconic landmarks such as the Humble Administrator's Garden and the North Temple Pagoda. Its prime location not only adds to its appeal but also influences the development of the entire area.

What sets the Development of Suzhou 2017 WG47 apart is its emphasis on the essence of Suzhou Gardens' layout design. The building features a free-flowing courtyard that seamlessly connects the interior and exterior spaces. By adopting the core principles of Jiangnan architectural culture, every component of the building has been carefully selected and arranged to create a harmonious and balanced environment. The interaction between the architecture and the garden is a key aspect of the design, showcasing the integration of traditional and modern materials to embody the modern Zen spirit in landscape design.

To realize this design, advanced materials such as titanium zinc plates have been used for the roofing, replacing traditional small gray tiles to elevate the building's aesthetic appeal. The use of alloy components instead of fragile wood strips for the wood elements ensures durability and longevity. Alloy-framed, soundproof glass windows with high air tightness have replaced traditional wooden sashes, enhancing energy efficiency and comfort. The corridor pillars feature a combination of stone and metal, adding a touch of elegance to the overall design. The foundation of the building remains true to tradition, using traditional stone materials.

The Development of Suzhou 2017 WG47 spans a land area of 37,909 square meters, with a gross floor area of 22,745 square meters. The floor area ratio is 0.6, and the building density is 39.00 percent. The project also prioritizes green spaces, with a greening rate of 30.00 percent.

This project was a creative and technical challenge, as it aimed to transform the traditional Chinese-style villa into an innovative Chinese-style design. By upgrading facade components from wood to aluminum alloy, the building maintains its traditional charm while incorporating modern materials. The replacement of the small gray-tile roofing with titanium zinc plates required extensive research and development, resulting in a longer timeline and higher costs.

The Development of Suzhou 2017 WG47 is a testament to the successful integration of traditional and modern design principles. It revitalizes Suzhou's old town, preserving its historical and cultural heritage while meeting the demands of modern living. This project was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2020, recognizing its practicality, innovation, and adherence to professional and industrial standards.