Revitalizing the Past: The Tanjing Sales Center by Shanghai PTArchitects

Blending Tradition and Modernity in Fuzhou City's Architectural Landscape

The project, located in Taijiang District, is nestled between the historic Guangming Port and the Three Lanes and Seven Alleys Historical Area. The design team aimed to create a diverse community that fosters cultural experiences, connecting the communities between the Minjiang River and the Guangming Port. The Tanjing Sales Center is more than just a building; it's a vibrant hub that unites green living, a dragon boat museum, art exhibitions, leisure, and entertainment facilities.

One of the unique features of the Tanjing Sales Center is its preservation of two ancient banyan trees on the site. The building is designed around these trees, creating a series of spaces and inner streets that evoke the traditional Fuzhou lifestyle that exists "under the banyan tree, next to the river." This thoughtful design approach reflects the architects' deep respect for Fuzhou’s culture and their attempt to reinterpret Fuzhou’s tradition through modern means.

The building's realization technology is another testament to the fusion of modern style and traditional cultural elements. The architects used local stone and brick as the main materials of the external wall, emphasizing the fusion between modern style and traditional cultural elements. These ceramic tiles are produced by local traditional techniques, and the resulting rough surface bestows a sense of time and history upon the new building.

The project faced several challenges, including a limited area, proximity to a residential area and a main city road, and regulations on ancient and rare tree protection. The architects had to balance the need for a quality community experience with the need for a friendly alleyway space. The solution was to use local materials, which allowed the building to blend in with the old trees and the local community of Fuzhou city.

The Tanjing Sales Center is a shining example of how architects can give back to the ancient city through developing new cultures. It's a project that respects the past while looking towards the future, creating a space that's not just functional, but also deeply rooted in the local culture and history. The project was awarded Silver in A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2021, a testament to its outstanding design and innovation.