Guangzhou University Town Four Villages

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The vision for University Island is for a place defined by great parks, open spaces, modern canals, and restored ecosystems. Image © SOM | Crystal CG

Working closely with village leaders, focused investments were identified to make the entire island a more livable and vibrant place, balancing its heritage with new and forward thinking strategies. Image © SOM

Appropriately scaled new development reinforces the pattern of connected open spaces and maintains views from every part of the village. Image © SOM | Crystal CG

Taller buildings positioned for light and air flow are located along the perimeter, optimizing river views and establishing an island skyline identity rising from the trees. Image © SOM | Philip Michael Brown Studio

Passive design strategies and green space shaped the urban framework, helping University Island to conserve resources. Image © SOM | Philip Michael Brown Studio

New housing options, improved public spaces, and commercial centers with connected pedestrian pathways bring diversified experiences within a quick stroll of each campus. Image © SOM | Philip Michael Brown Studio

The plan promotes stewardship and renewal of the whole island by strengthening connections between the villages and universities. Image © SOM | Crystal CG

The Master Plan restores integrity of place using the historic development patterns of four ancient farm villages to humanize explosive development on University Island in Guangzhou, China. Image © SOM

SOM’s master plan for University Island in Guangzhou uses the development patterns of four ancient farm villages to humanize a recent wave of rapid development. Ten disconnected campuses sprung up on the island in just seven years, with the student population swelling to more than 400,000. The island offers few amenities or natural escapes, with the nearest destinations requiring a car. The historic villages quickly became isolated.

Working closely with village leaders and city planners, focused investments were identified to make the entire island more livable and sustainable, balancing its heritage with forward-thinking strategies. The master plan integrates existing villages into an overarching framework that establishes new centers of student and village life, pinpoints areas for historic preservation, and uses lower-scaled development to reinforce a walkable community.