Canal Conjunction Area

Jining
2012
431 ha

Project locates in Grand Canal Conjunction Area with thousand years of history, which location is not only a transportation hub; but also an economic, cultural, and ecological hub. In history, Grand Canal waterway transport function brought prosperity for the coastal cities. Today there is a shift in the function of the Grand Canal. She becomes the important ecological corridors and cultural corridor in densely populated areas of eastern China.

“CANAL CULTURE”

A key concept of the proposal focuses on the cultural value of the area’s historical canals. The project aims to reinvent the canals, adapting them to work in harmony with the modern urban context whilst retaining their traditional characteristics. The development of the canals will allow them to support new functions, beyond their traditional use just as a transport network. They will become a place of commerce, leisure and entertainment for local residents as well as providing a focal area for the local tourism industry.

“DISTRICT IDENTITY”

The key idea for the district identity is to further develop the local character or sense of place, creating a non-static concept that articulates the historic, economic, and cultural context of the community. The project concept is rooted in natural elements: in the water, recalled in Jining’s first character, representing the city’s historical element, as a means of transportation and way of life ; in the lotus, Jining’s city flower and a national cultural icon; and in the forests, which represent both the means and the end in dealing with the rest of the natural world and our own lives. These three concepts further develop in urban prototypes, located in three different areas: the waterfront town, the lotus park area and the CBD area.

“ECO DISTRICT”

Jining city has great potential for economic, social and cultural development. These different forms of development can coexist and interact in a modern new environment, generating employment, business and learning opportunities. Creativity, culture and community life will be stimulated. Nevertheless developing a city is always a struggle.

The Planning area has potential to be a livable and sustainable city district. The consideration of eco principles from the very beginning of the planning process is crucial for the development of the area. The implementation of eco principles as the main planning basis will result in a high quality ecological environment. The following three principals have been used as a basis for modifying, adjusting and redesigning the master plan, from large to small scale. These are considered the main eco principles that will guide throughout the design process and will determine other secondary principles, such as the open space network, the transit oriented development or the planning hierarchy.

First prize was awarded in Jining Canal conjunction Area Urban Design Competition.