Revolutionizing Power Plants: The Shenzhen Energy Renovation Project

Peijun Ye and Tongtong Hui - Hayer Design Transform Power Plant into a Work of Art

The Shenzhen Energy Renovation Project is a unique endeavor that redefines the aesthetic of power plants. Traditionally, power plants in China are large, undecorated structures with a standard roof and chimney. However, the client's vision was to break away from this stereotype and modernize the power plant, which has been in operation for over a decade.

The design inspiration for this project stems from the Chinese tradition of worshipping nature. The location of the project, nestled among the mountains in Yantian district, Shenzhen, provided the perfect backdrop for the designers to incorporate elements of nature into their design. The facade of the main plant, covered in white perforated plates, resembles a waterfall cascading down from the mountains, seamlessly blending the architecture with its natural surroundings.

The project's unique properties lie in its innovative use of materials and design. The designers used an independent steel structure and perforated aluminum plates to rebuild the facade. These materials are not only fireproof and corrosion-resistant but also lend a light and transparent quality to the facade, a stark contrast to the original heavy, stiff image of the factory.

The Shenzhen Energy Renovation Project also prioritizes environmental quality and visitor experience. The designers reorganized the circulation and landscape to correspond with the plant facade and designed walking tours for pedestrians. The transformation of the project has reawakened the public to an integral part of the city.

The project, which started in September 2016 and was completed in June 2017, faced several challenges. The designers had to ensure that the plant could continue to operate normally during the renovation. They also had to consider the needs of both staff and visitors in their design. Despite these challenges, the project was a success and is a testament to the designers' creativity and technical prowess.

The Shenzhen Energy Renovation Project was awarded the Golden A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2018. This prestigious award is granted to outstanding and trendsetting creations that advance art, science, design, and technology. The award is a testament to the project's extraordinary excellence and significant impact on the world.