Reviving History: Zhongping Road's Transformation

Yaotian Zhang's Award-Winning Cultural Inheritance Project

As a gateway to the Maritime Silk Road, Fuzhou was a well-developed shipping city that brought prosperity to southeast China during the Republic of China era. Zhongping Road, a symbol of this historical prosperity, had fallen into disrepair until Zhang and his team undertook the project. The team's goal was to restore the street's former glory, making it a landmark that stands for the communication between history and the present.

Zhang's design was inspired by the culture of 1930s Shanghai. The team pursued the traces of history throughout the design process, incorporating their understanding and feelings of history into the project. The result is a unique design that not only revives the street but also brings back the crowd, reinvigorating the area with a sense of community and cultural heritage.

The project faced numerous challenges, including the corrosion of external walls and strict government standards and limitations. The team had to figure out how to reinforce each internal component of the ancient buildings while maintaining their historical integrity. Despite these obstacles, the project was completed in one and a half years, transforming the 800-meter street and 35,000 square meters area into a brand-new landmark.

The design team, led by Zhang, included Congyi Luo, Qiao Sheng, and Lizhou Hu. Their combined expertise in graphic design, interior design, and project management contributed to the project's success. The design was realized using marble, iron, and wood, materials that reflect the local architectural characteristics and the street's historical significance.

In conclusion, Zhongping Road's transformation is a testament to the power of design in preserving and reviving cultural heritage. Zhang's project serves as an inspiration for future designers to take on similar projects, highlighting the importance of maintaining a connection with our past while moving forward into the future.