U Cube: A Landscape Renovation by Lacime Landscaping

Revitalizing Urban Diversity through Simplicity and Innovation

Inspired by Jane Jacobs' vision of vibrant urban areas, Lacime Landscaping has transformed a small-scale street in Shanghai into a stunning office landscape. With its minimal elements, futuristic design techniques, and exquisite details, U Cube stands out as a unique and practical solution to urban revitalization.

As Jane Jacobs pointed out in her book "The Death and Life of Great American Cities," modern urban planning often overlooks the importance of high-density, mixed-use neighborhoods and open spaces. U Cube embraces Jacobs' four elements of a vibrant urban area: mixed land use, small-scale neighborhoods, coexistence of new and old buildings, and high population density. By integrating these elements, Lacime Landscaping has created a space that promotes urban diversity and injects vitality into the surrounding area.

The original street lacked character and soul, with messy city interfaces and ambiguous boundaries between industries. Lacime Landscaping tackled this challenge by using futuristic materials, fine doorplates, and an iconic entrance to create a distinct facade that separates the office area from the residential zone. This transformation not only enhances the street's aesthetics but also highlights the unique nature of the land, ultimately increasing the value of the neighborhood.

One of the main design principles behind U Cube was to stretch space. The original narrow and dark lane was congested and depressing due to the coexistence of passages and vehicles. By reimagining the space, Lacime Landscaping has created a more open and inviting environment that encourages interaction and exploration.

Aside from the landscape transformation, U Cube also shields vehicles through controlled access, providing a quiet and independent modern working environment with a sense of the future. This design goes beyond the present, showcasing how thoughtful and innovative design can promote value and improve quality of life.

Completed in 2018 in Shanghai, China, U Cube is a testament to Lacime Landscaping's dedication to creating designs that transcend time. The clean white walls and futuristic lights contrast sharply with the surrounding environment, making a bold statement and captivating the attention of passersby. With its recognition as a Bronze A' Design Award winner in Landscape Planning and Garden Design, U Cube has solidified its place as an outstanding and creatively ingenious design that contributes to the improvement of our urban spaces.

U Cube is a prime example of how simplicity and innovation can transform a small-scale street into a thriving office landscape. Lacime Landscaping's commitment to removing complexity and embracing minimalism has resulted in a design that not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the area but also promotes urban diversity and revitalization. As we continue to seek designs that stand the test of time, U Cube serves as a beacon of inspiration and a reminder of the transformative power of thoughtful and innovative design.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Shanghai Lacime Design Co. Ltd.
Image Credits: Shanghai Lacime Design Co. Ltd.
Project Team Members: Zhang Yi, Wang Jing, Hou Jianbang, Wang Donghao, Huang Xuelong, Wu Di, Ma Dawei, Zeng Xiaohui
Project Name: U Cube
Project Client: Shanghai Lacime Design Co. Ltd.


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