Silk Road Corridor Inspires Mawan Office Complex

Three towers and green corridors redefine urban workspace in Shenzhen

The Mawan Office Complex, designed by Zhong Zhong and the Z&Z Studio team, stands as a striking example of how architecture can harmonize with its environment while meeting the demands of a modern urban workforce. Located in the heart of Shenzhen-Hong Kong International Service City, this project is rooted in the “Silk Road Corridor” concept, which shapes both its spatial organization and aesthetic. The design continues the area’s “Three Peaks and Two Valleys” pattern, integrating Y-shaped green corridors and a three-dimensional park system that blurs the boundaries between built and natural environments.

At the core of the complex are three towers, each rising to approximately 75 meters, connected by an aerial corridor that forms an internal axis. The vertical green valley, with its curved, stacked layers, mirrors the nearby Qianwan River, creating an east-west ecological belt. This approach not only enhances the visual landscape but also provides high-quality, scenic office spaces that promote well-being and productivity. The multi-layered base and setback terraces foster a vibrant community street environment, encouraging interaction and a sense of place.

Technological innovation is central to the project’s realization. Prefabricated building systems were selected for their efficiency, seismic resistance, and compliance with height regulations. The design also incorporates reserved capacity for future upgrades to water, electricity, and HVAC systems, ensuring adaptability for evolving workplace needs. With a total building area of over 91,000 square meters and 343 parking spaces, the complex accommodates office, commercial, and cultural functions, supporting a dynamic, multifunctional urban hub.

Research and planning for the complex focused on international standards and the integration of living, working, and entertainment spaces. The project’s master plan emphasizes connectivity, both within the site and with the surrounding city. Challenges such as balancing functionality and landscape within the 75-meter height limit, and ensuring efficient interaction between different zones, were addressed through innovative vertical and horizontal design strategies. The result is an iconic urban landscape that contributes to the ongoing Shenzhen-Hong Kong integration.

The Office Complex Design Mawan Unit 15 has garnered international recognition, winning the Bronze A’ Design Award in 2025 for its creative ingenuity and technical excellence. By combining best practices in art, science, and technology, the project not only elevates the quality of urban life but also sets a precedent for future developments in industrial and office architecture.

As cities continue to evolve, projects like the Mawan Office Complex demonstrate the potential of thoughtful design to create spaces that are both functional and inspiring, fostering sustainable communities and iconic urban identities.