Peak Art: A Modern Interpretation of Traditional Architecture

Shanghai PTArchitects' Award-Winning Design Revives Cultural Heritage

The inspiration for the design came from the rich cultural and historical heritage of Xushuguan Town. Founded in the Qin Dynasty, the town has a history of more than 2,000 years and is located near the Grand Canal. Shanghai PTArchitects aimed to extend the cultural lineage of Xushuguan and create a modern architectural form that interprets its traditional spatial context.

The unique properties of the design lie in its use of modern techniques and materials to echo the town's history. The wall surface is partially treated with hollowed out black bricks, a traditional material in Suzhou and Xushuguan architecture. The use of pearl blue stone and matte surface treatment further echoes the local traditional architectural tones and textures.

The architectural form extracts the sloping roof form from traditional architecture, creating a simple and staggered facade profile. A large glass curtain wall facing the courtyard incorporates the landscape into the indoor view, achieving a poetic penetration. The application of metal inserts in the stone wall echoes the line elements in oriental architecture.

The project, which started in September 2020 and finished in April 2021, faced challenges due to the confined triangular site. Drawing on the Suzhou Garden path, the design creates a sense of spatial hierarchy and playfulness. The enclosed veranda along the urban interface uses translucent U-shaped glass to achieve "ambiguous" communication between the inside and outside of the space.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the design also incorporates sustainable concepts and green materials. Local trees were used for landscape planting to reflect the area's diverse ecology, and a rainwater harvesting system was installed to reuse water for irrigation.

In conclusion, the Peak Art project is a testament to Shanghai PTArchitects' ability to blend history and modernity in a unique and inspiring way. The project not only revives the cultural heritage of Xushuguan Town but also sets a precedent for future architectural designs.