Jiangnan No.1 Courtyard: A Harmonious Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Wei Zhang's Award-Winning Design Embraces Jiangnan's Cultural Roots and Modern Innovation

The Jiangnan No.1 Courtyard draws its inspiration from the traditional courtyard's emphasis on spirituality and a sense of belonging. Wei Zhang and his team have meticulously designed the space around a patio atrium, creating an enclosed hall that resonates with the traditional concept. The building's location, adjacent to a lake, adds a unique charm reminiscent of a Jiangnan watery town, further enhancing the design's appeal.

What sets this design apart are its unique features and strengths. The herringbone sloping roofs, minimalist white walls, and black tile elements create a vivid visual impression, forming a continuous and rhythmic picture. This undulating roof design not only adds a rich spatial dimension but also reflects the designer's appreciation for the endless mountains.

The building's realization is a testament to innovative technology and thoughtful design. The entrance, made of imitative wood pole elements, creates a semi-transparent curtain effect. This, combined with the landscape, paints a beautiful picture of Jiangnan's mountains and rivers. The use of glass material at the corner along the lake and the Jiangnan architectural elements of white walls and black tiles, form a virtual and real, modern and ancient, indoor and outdoor integration.

The design also incorporates a light well atrium, a feature of traditional courtyards that emphasizes spirituality and belonging. Natural light seeping through the atrium glass serves as an indoor light source, changing with the seasons and creating a variety of light and shadow effects. This, combined with the waterscape, fills the square space with a sense of light flow and fresh vitality.

The Jiangnan No.1 Courtyard is a result of extensive research and creative challenges. The design team aimed to depict their understanding of traditional Jiangnan architecture and explore the cultural roots embedded in the space. The project, started in 2016 and completed in 2018, is a successful attempt to express the unique charm of oriental architecture with a modern language.

In conclusion, the Jiangnan No.1 Courtyard is a remarkable design achievement by Wei Zhang and his team. It embodies the spirit of traditional Jiangnan architecture while embracing modern design elements. This harmonious blend of tradition and modernity has not only earned the design a prestigious award but also set a new benchmark in architectural design.