Aedas' AIA Financial Center: A Green Spine in Urban Design

Revolutionizing Commercial Architecture with Integrated Greenery and Open Spaces

The AIA Financial Center, designed by the renowned architecture firm Aedas, is a commercial project located at the central spine of the Guangdong New High Financial Service District in Foshan, China. It is the first of its kind in the district, setting a new standard for commercial architecture. The design inspiration for this project was derived from the site's context, with the aim to achieve a superb working environment, offer large public green space, and provide linkage to the surrounding.

What sets the AIA Financial Center apart is its unique use of voids and negative space in the form of internal courtyards and landscaped plazas. This approach breaks down the architectural mass of the podium and introduces plenty of daylight, while integrating greenery and nature with the building. This results in an interplay of indoor and outdoor, active and passive space, creating a dynamic and engaging environment.

The material palettes for the AIA Financial Center were carefully designed to create a suitable atmosphere for commercial and retail spaces. Building materials were locally sourced to minimize travel and reduce the project's carbon footprint. Full-scale off-site mock-ups for the glazed curtain wall system, typical office lobbies and washrooms, and a fully-fitted Sample Office Floor were constructed for review, detail refinement, and establishing the control for the acceptable quality and standard for the project.

The office tower offers Grade-A office space of international standards. A column-free floor plate up to 12 metres depth is achieved by an efficient central core and perimeter column structural frame. Spectacular views over Qiandeng Lake Park are available in all office spaces. Building services provisions are of the most up-to-date standard, meeting the demands of high-end corporates. An advanced automated BMS is adopted to monitor and control all building services and systems effectively.

The AIA Financial Center was recognized for its innovative design and was awarded Silver in A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2017. The Silver A' Design Award is rewarded to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation. These designs, admired for their strong technical characteristics and splendid artistic skill, showcase a remarkable level of excellence and introduce positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.

In conclusion, Aedas' AIA Financial Center is a shining example of how architecture can enhance environmental quality and create enjoyable working environments. It is a testament to the potential of architecture in revolutionizing urban design planning and setting new standards for commercial architecture.