Shenzhen Longhua Xingzhi: A New Paradigm in School Design

Zhubo Design's Innovative Approach to Student-Centric Education Spaces

In the bustling urban landscape of Shenzhen, the Shenzhen Longhua Xingzhi middle school emerges as a beacon of innovative design and educational philosophy. Zhubo Design has reimagined the traditional school structure to create a space that prioritizes the needs and curiosity of students, fostering an environment that is both educational and inspirational.

At the heart of Zhubo Design's architectural breakthrough is the concept of subtraction. By carving out spaces within a dense classroom layout and integrating public bridges, a Möbius Ring-like public space system unfolds. This design facilitates informal communication and encourages three-dimensional spatial exploration. The result is a series of vibrant, colorful staircases, platforms, and structures that offer a multitude of individual spaces. These areas are crafted to ignite the imagination of children, turning the campus into a stimulating playground for the mind.

The school's construction techniques are equally impressive. The teaching buildings are constructed using a frame structure, while the dormitory employs a frame shear wall structure. To ensure uninterrupted space below, the teaching building's corridor spans 27 meters using a steel structure. The project also includes two and a half basements where column-free large spaces are created using a unidirectional secondary beam structure, accommodating basketball courts and lecture halls.

With a total land area of over 22,000 square meters and a construction area exceeding 58,000 square meters, the school stands as a testament to efficient space utilization. The design boasts a volume rate of 2.18 and reaches a height of 41.15 meters across its 11 floors. These specifications not only fulfill functional requirements but also contribute to the school's striking aesthetic.

The design's keywords—Event container, High floor area ratio, Community sharing, Public communication circle, New type of educational complex—reflect its core values. The school is not just an educational institution but a hub for community interaction and engagement. The architects have introduced a dumbbell-shaped model for the main public space, flanked by sports facilities. This central area acts as a thoroughfare and a venue for school and community events, embodying the school's inclusive ethos.

From its inception in 2019 to its completion in 2021, the Shenzhen Longhua Xingzhi project has navigated challenges such as the significant height difference across the site and the lack of public space in the surrounding urban village. The design team, led by Chief Architect Qiao Zhong, has successfully transformed these obstacles into unique features that enhance the school's communal and educational functions.

The Shenzhen Longhua Xingzhi project is not only a physical space but also a symbol of progressive educational philosophy. Recognized with a Bronze A' Design Award in 2024, the project stands as a significant contribution to the fields of architecture and education. By redefining the school environment, Zhubo Design has created a space that is both a learning facility and a cultural community cornerstone, enriching the lives of students and residents alike.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Zhubo Design
Image Credits: Qingshan Wu
Project Team Members: Chief Architect: Qiao Zhong Architect: Yuhua Wu, Tiantian Zhang, Jingyang Peng, Xin Huang, Xiaoting Zheng, Hengsi Ma, Dongmin Li, Qiwen Cai
Project Name: Shenzhen Xingzhi
Project Client: Zhubo Design


Shenzhen Xingzhi IMG #2
Shenzhen Xingzhi IMG #3
Shenzhen Xingzhi IMG #4
Shenzhen Xingzhi IMG #5
Shenzhen Xingzhi IMG #5

Read More on Design Radiant