Wenzhou Vanke Center: A Modern Interpretation of Traditional Chinese Aesthetics

Creating a Shan-shui City in the Heart of Wenzhou

The inspiration for Wenzhou Vanke Center comes from Chinese traditional paintings, which serve as the foundation for the building's unique features. With a lighting waterfall, stone-shaped steps, and aluminum bamboos, the design evokes a sense of nostalgia while utilizing modern materials. The goal is to bring traditional Chinese aesthetic elements such as bamboos, hills, streams, mounts, and paths back to the modern building.

One of the key strengths of Wenzhou Vanke Center is its ability to create a Shan-shui City, a concept that aims to blend natural elements with urban environments. The building is strategically located in an area that boasts Wenzhou city's top resources and supporting infrastructures. By incorporating elements like a waterfront square and big steps on the west side, the design seamlessly connects commerce with surrounding parks, attracting people and increasing the vitality of the business. On the east side, trees are used to provide a quiet place for work, isolating noise from the outside.

The realization of Wenzhou Vanke Center involved the use of various materials, including ceramic plates, metallic aluminum sheets, and printed glass. These materials not only contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the building but also ensure its functionality and durability. With a floor area of 58,187m², the center provides ample space for commerce and office activities.

One of the design challenges faced by Feng Cheng and the team was ensuring user comfort. The inclusion of naturally ventilated window sashes in the glass curtain wall facade required careful consideration. The solution was to hide the windows within the aluminum lines, creating a rhythmic facade while also allowing for internal wall settings.

Completed in September 2020, Wenzhou Vanke Center stands as a testament to the successful fusion of traditional Chinese aesthetics and modern architectural design. It not only pays homage to the rich cultural heritage of China but also serves as a vibrant hub for commerce and office activities in the heart of Wenzhou.

This exceptional design has been recognized with the Bronze A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category in 2022. This prestigious award celebrates designs that exhibit outstanding creativity and resourcefulness, incorporating best practices in art, science, design, and technology. Wenzhou Vanke Center's innovative approach and contribution to improving the quality of life make it a deserving recipient of this accolade.