DayPark Sales and Culture Center: A Homage to Craftsmanship and Art of Life

A Mix Used Center Showcasing Vanke's High-End Residential Development

The DayPark project, spanning an area of 1,700 square meters, is a debut residential development by Vanke in Shenzhen. It serves as a comprehensive space, combining a sales office and a government-programmed exhibition center that showcases local culture through arts. The center embodies the essence of Vanke's high-end residential product, ZHEN, which emphasizes the importance of craftsmanship and artistic lifestyle.

The design of the DayPark Sales and Culture Center is characterized by its unique properties and attention to detail. The use of conventional materials, such as grey tinted timber, Chinese paper, woolen felt, grey stone, TGCS, and special paint, adds to the simplicity and vitality of the space. The architect, Yu Zhao, and the design team, including Li Yuanjia, Liu Xuelian, and Lv Jing, have created a harmonious environment that reflects the spirit of jade.

One of the highlights of the design is the installation of a library and floral work in the central display hall. The library features a large bookcase made of overlying paper sheets framed by steel strips. Visitors are invited to enter the film section through the opening of the volume, creating an interactive and engaging experience. Adjacent to the bookcase is a 9-meter-high screen that serves as a metaphorical wall, blocking natural light and providing a medium for the floral installation on top, resulting in a visually stunning composition.

The DayPark Sales and Culture Center was a challenging project that required careful consideration of lighting and space composition. The architect successfully maintained the positive effect of natural light while highlighting the glossiness and fascination of the art works. The use of walls, partitions, and screening curtains created an open and consistent enclosed space, allowing for a seamless flow between different areas. The differentiation of tranquility, transparency, and texture in various materials further enhanced the control of light and contributed to the overall ambiance of the center.

The project, which started in August 2016 in Beijing and finished in February 2017 in Shenzhen, was a result of extensive research and attention to detail. The architect recognized the importance of craftsmanship, artistic lifestyle, and humanity in a rapidly developing city like Shenzhen. Elements of Chinese culture, such as tea and Kung Fu, were incorporated into the design, adding depth and cultural significance to the space.

The DayPark Sales and Culture Center, with its unique design and homage to craftsmanship, has received recognition in the form of the Bronze A' Design Award in 2018. This prestigious award is bestowed upon outstanding designs that exhibit creativity, resourcefulness, and strong technical skills. The center's incorporation of art, science, design, and technology contributes to quality of life improvements, making it a true gem in the heart of Shenzhen Bay.

Image Credits: Images by Wang Ting.

Intellectual Property Notice: Copyrights belong to Yu Zhao, 2017.