Xinhe Group Headquarters: Nature-Inspired Office Architecture

Pengfei He’s design harmonizes workspace with Fuyang’s scenic landscape

Set on a 19,000-square-meter site bordered by water and gentle hills, the Xinhe Group Headquarters stands as a testament to thoughtful integration with its surroundings. Pengfei He’s design draws direct inspiration from the land’s former inhabitants—water birds—mirroring their graceful wing movements in the building’s fragmented, dynamic form. This approach not only aligns with the client’s ambitious vision but also proposes a new paradigm for office buildings that prioritize interaction with nature.

The headquarters comprises six distinct buildings, each rising three to five stories and carefully arranged along the lakeshore. This layout maximizes natural light and panoramic views for occupants, ensuring that every workspace benefits from the tranquil beauty of the landscape. The division of the structure into smaller volumes allows the architecture to blend seamlessly with the terrain, minimizing visual impact and fostering a sense of openness.

Material selection further enhances the building’s connection to its environment. The use of stone, wood, glass, and metal creates a rich interplay of textures and light, while the transparency of glass contrasts with the solidity of stone, evoking both strength and fluidity. This careful material palette not only supports the building’s aesthetic goals but also reflects a commitment to sustainability and sensory comfort.

One of the project’s central challenges was to protect the original ecological environment while maximizing the site’s landscape resources. By fragmenting the building mass and following the natural contours of the land, the design minimizes disruption and preserves the area’s biodiversity. The result is a headquarters that serves as a bridge between people and nature, encouraging a relaxed and productive working atmosphere.

Recognized with the prestigious Golden A' Design Award in 2025, the Xinhe Group Headquarters exemplifies how architecture can advance both design excellence and environmental stewardship. As office buildings continue to evolve, this project stands as a model for integrating innovation, sustainability, and the enduring beauty of the natural world.

Image credits: Junyan Wang