Timeless Grove: Reviving Industrial Heritage with Digital Parks

Interactive technology transforms Nanjing’s watch factory into a sustainable park

Timeless Grove stands as a pioneering example of how digital interaction and ecological design can breathe new life into urban spaces. Located on the grounds of the historic Nanjing watch factory, the project integrates augmented reality, smart navigation, and gamified eco-challenges to create a unique public experience. Visitors are invited to explore the park’s 150 acres through an app that personalizes their journey, offering interactive tasks and rewards that encourage environmentally conscious behavior.

Upon entering the park, guests activate their experience by scanning a quick response code. The app then provides augmented reality-assisted navigation, overlaying historical images of industrial structures onto the current landscape. This feature allows visitors to witness the transformation of the site, fostering a deeper appreciation for both its heritage and its ecological renewal. According to the designers, this approach “redefines how visitors experience industrial heritage, green innovation, and community-driven sustainability.”

Central to Timeless Grove’s innovation is its gamified carbon reward system. As users walk eco-friendly trails, sort waste, or identify plant species, they earn carbon points reflecting their positive environmental impact. These points can be redeemed for park rewards or discounts at local merchants, incentivizing sustainable actions and strengthening ties between the park and the surrounding community. The app’s modular card-based interface and voice guidance ensure accessibility for a diverse range of visitors.

The project’s realization required careful balance between preserving industrial heritage, promoting ecological sustainability, and delivering a seamless digital experience. Location-based triggers activate interactive challenges, while smart navigation and carbon tracking systems visualize both individual and collective contributions to sustainability. This holistic approach not only educates visitors but also encourages long-term behavioral change.

Timeless Grove’s research-driven design demonstrates the power of combining user journey mapping, environmental studies, and behavioral analysis. By embedding digital engagement within the natural environment, the project offers a scalable model for interactive and sustainable urban renewal. Its recognition with the Iron A' Design Award in 2025 highlights its success in integrating best practices and technical excellence to create a fulfilling and forward-thinking public space.

Timeless Grove exemplifies how technology and design can work in harmony to revitalize urban landscapes, promote environmental stewardship, and foster community connection. As cities worldwide seek sustainable solutions for post-industrial sites, this project offers a blueprint for transforming history into a living, interactive experience.