Jiangnan No.1 Courtyard: A Modern Interpretation of Eastern Traditions

Connecting History and Modern Life Through Architecture

Jiangnan No.1 Courtyard, designed by Wei Zhang from gad, is a residential project that beautifully combines the essence of Eastern traditions with contemporary living. Inspired by the Tang-style architecture and the charm of Suzhou gardens, this design offers a unique and sophisticated living experience.

The Tang-style architecture, known for its simplicity and elegance, serves as the foundation for this project. The design embraces the principles of Tang-style construction, where form, function, material, structure, and craftsmanship are seamlessly integrated. By adopting Tang-style elements, Jiangnan No.1 Courtyard not only pays homage to the rich history of Chinese architecture but also meets the aesthetic requirements of modern living.

Furthermore, the design draws inspiration from the Suzhou-style gardens, which emphasize the harmony between people and nature. The flexible layout of the courtyards and the imitation of natural landscapes create a sense of unity and integration. This design approach caters to the contemporary need for spacious and well-designed living spaces while also satisfying the longing for a connection with nature.

What sets Jiangnan No.1 Courtyard apart is its ability to seamlessly blend history and modernity. The pitched roofs, a hallmark of traditional houses, maintain the graceful proportions of the past. At the same time, the projected cornices add a touch of generosity and lightness to the overall design. These architectural details showcase the perfect balance between simplicity and modernity.

The realization of this design is achieved through innovative technologies and techniques. The optimization of aluminum alloy sections for corner cornices allows for precise construction and ensures the quality of the joints. The application of stone paint, using the double-wall method, simulates the appearance of a stone curtain wall while maintaining a smooth interface with the paint. These technical advancements contribute to the overall aesthetic and functionality of Jiangnan No.1 Courtyard.

Completed in 2019, Jiangnan No.1 Courtyard stands as a testament to the successful fusion of history and modernity. Its unique architectural features, such as the dark grey diamond-shaped tiles, aluminum moldings, and floor-to-ceiling windows, create a transparent and sophisticated atmosphere. The design team, led by Wei Zhang, worked closely with other entities, including Shanghai Wujian Architecture Design Co., Ltd. for the interior and Integrated Planning and Design for the landscape, to bring this vision to life.

Jiangnan No.1 Courtyard has received recognition for its outstanding design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category in 2022. This prestigious award acknowledges the design's creativity, technical excellence, and contribution to improving the quality of life.

With its seamless integration of Eastern traditions and modern living, Jiangnan No.1 Courtyard offers a unique and sophisticated residential experience. It serves as a reminder that history and modernity can coexist harmoniously, creating spaces that are both timeless and contemporary.