A struggle to accommodate explosive growth has characterized Shanghai’s transformation into a post-industrial city. Whereas most new developments have sprung up along the linear corridors of major streets and lack a sense of scale and place, this master plan offers an alternative: a compact and walkable district that bridges the old and new.

Situated between Shanghai’s ancient walled city and its dynamic downtown, the project will ultimately encompass 148,700 square meters. The plan calls for high-density housing, hotels, community service facilities, retail and entertainment centers, and office buildings. Various uses will be brought together around a central open space with a manmade lake.

Sensitively integrating the new development into the city’s existing fabric was a key goal. The plan sets tall buildings among lower structures to help create a pedestrian scale. Moreover, two city blocks, including an important historic landmark, will be preserved.