Unveiling the Zhonghai Upper Bay Sales Center: A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity

Ocean Luo's Award-Winning Design Marries Chinese Cultural Heritage with Contemporary Aesthetics

In the bustling city of Xiamen, a unique architectural marvel stands out - the Zhonghai Upper Bay Sales Center. Designed by the renowned Ocean Luo, this structure is a testament to the seamless integration of traditional Chinese culture and modern design aesthetics. This article explores the inspiration, unique properties, and realization technology behind this award-winning design.

At the heart of Luo's design inspiration is the desire to rediscover and highlight the cultural characteristics of Fujian province, China. The design needed to not only exude a traditional Chinese flavor but also cater to the lifestyle preferences of contemporary individuals. To achieve this, Luo turned to a traditional Chinese subject - 'Ink and wash'. This artistic technique, characterized by its simplicity and depth, became the cornerstone of the design.

The unique properties of the Zhonghai Upper Bay Sales Center lie in its expert application of 'Ink and wash'. Elements of mountains, water, and stone are expressed through simple compositions, creating a rich, classical ambiance. Luo's use of blank-leaving, movement of steps, shift of scenes, and light and dark nuances further enhance the viewer's experience, immersing them in a space that breathes Chinese culture.

The realization of this design was made possible through the use of marble, custom wallpaper, and wood veneer. These materials, combined with the expansive 694 m² space, contribute to the overall aesthetic and functional appeal of the sales center. The design also takes into account the characteristics and preferences of the target customer group, ensuring a maximized space experience.

The project, which started in August 2017 in Guangzhou and was completed in April 2018 in Xiamen, faced several challenges. One of the major hurdles was refining the cultural characteristics of Fujian province while ensuring the design catered to contemporary lifestyle preferences. The use of 'huge ink painting' as a special craft material further complicated the process, requiring constant modifications to achieve perfection.

Despite these challenges, the Zhonghai Upper Bay Sales Center has received significant recognition. In 2019, it was awarded Silver in the A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award. This prestigious accolade is given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise, innovation, and artistic skill. Ocean Luo's design not only meets these criteria but also serves as a shining example of the convergence of art and business.

In conclusion, the Zhonghai Upper Bay Sales Center is a testament to Ocean Luo's ability to blend tradition and modernity. Through his innovative use of 'Ink and wash', Luo has created a space that is not only functional but also deeply rooted in Chinese culture. This design sets a new standard for future projects, demonstrating that it is indeed possible to respect cultural heritage while catering to contemporary tastes.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: OCEAN LUO
Image Credits: OCEAN LUO
Project Team Members: OCEAN LUO
Project Name: Zhonghai Upper Bay
Project Client: OCEAN LUO


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