Urban Village Renewal Design: Transforming Nantou with the Six Bricolage-Houses by ARCity Office

In the historic heart of Shenzhen, China, the Six Bricolage-Houses project emerges as a pioneering example of urban village renewal design. Spearheaded by ARCity Office, this initiative breathes new life into the ancient streets of Nantou, blending modern architectural interventions with the area's rich cultural heritage.

Nantou: A Canvas for Urban Renewal

The Historical Context of Nantou

Nantou, with its deep-rooted history as a former administrative and trade hub, presents a unique setting for urban renewal. Its transformation from an ancient city to an urban village encapsulates the challenges and opportunities inherent in preserving the past while catering to the present and future needs of its community.

The Role of UABB in Nantou's Transformation

The Shenzhen-Hong Kong Bi-City Biennale of Urbanism\Architecture (UABB) has played a significant role in reintegrating Nantou into the urban development narrative of Shenzhen. Through collaborative efforts with entities like Vanke Company, the Biennale set the stage for innovative urban village renewal strategies focused on enhancing public spaces, heritage preservation, and the introduction of dynamic new functions.

The Six Bricolage-Houses: A Microcosm of Renewal

Conceptualizing Bricolage Architecture

The Six Bricolage-Houses embody the concept of "bricolage-architecture," where specific function enhancements, mixed-use scenarios, and the integration of old and new elements coalesce to redefine the urban village landscape. Each house represents a distinct aspect of Nantou's renewal, from community centers to art galleries, showcasing the versatility of design in urban regeneration.

Key Projects and Their Impact

U1 Platform Marketplace

U1 transforms a ground-floor shop into a vibrant public space, leveraging cantilevered platforms to create a multi-perspective viewing stage that enriches street life and community interaction.

U2 My Dormitory

U2 reimagines a traditional residence as a mixed-use complex, introducing dormitories for couriers, office spaces, and cultural exhibitions, thus fostering a diverse urban village ecosystem.

U3 Modified House

U3's renovation prioritizes spatial reconfiguration to enhance usability and engagement, introducing new circulation paths, public spaces, and a distinctive blend of traditional and modern architectural elements.

U4 Urban Village Art Gallery

U4 serves as a beacon for cultural expression, maintaining its historical facade while integrating contemporary spaces for art, commerce, and community living.

U5 City Wall Heritage Workshop

U5 delves into the historical essence of Nantou, revealing ancient city wall foundations through a comprehensive workshop space that invites exploration and learning.

U6 Wutong Community Center

U6 revitalizes a typical village house into a community hub, offering cultural, exhibition, and living spaces that encourage community participation and cultural exchange.

A Model for Urban Village Renewal

The Six Bricolage-Houses project by ARCity Office stands as a testament to the potential of urban village renewal design in preserving heritage while innovating for the future. Through thoughtful interventions and a deep respect for Nantou's historical context, the project offers a blueprint for revitalizing urban villages worldwide, blending tradition with transformation.

All photographs are work of Yu Bai