A Reborn Scenic Field Above Waves: Transforming Taizhou’s Seawall into a Vibrant Riverside Public Space

A Reborn Scenic Field Above Waves is an innovative urban regeneration and public infrastructure project that revitalizes the southern bank of the Jiaojiang River in Taizhou, China. Located near the Taizhou Bay estuary, adjacent to Jiaojiang Bridge, Hehe Avenue, and the Submarine Sightseeing Base, the project transforms brownfield waterfront areas into accessible, green, and multifunctional riverside spaces, harmonizing the city with its riverfront and cultural heritage.

The project responds to the historical detachment of the hydraulic infrastructure from urban life. Previously, the seawall featured narrow crests, isolated breakwaters, and abandoned four-story buildings spanning 270 meters, creating poor connectivity between the city and riverfront. TJAD Original Design Studio aimed to reopen, reconnect, relayer, and relight the seawall, transforming it into a vibrant public realm.

1. Reopening the Seawall to the City

The design elevates and widens the floodwalls, expanding the crest to over 12 meters and introducing multiple circulation pathways. Parking areas were relocated to the southern end under a gently sloping roof that integrates with traffic on Hehe Avenue. Sports facilities anchor both ends of the site, while the area outside the embankment was repurposed into a public plaza. Courtyards and platforms were introduced within the preserved structures to retain historical and material value, seamlessly merging public infrastructure, greenery, and community amenities.

2. Reconnecting Seawall with Time

The existing four-story buildings were horizontally sliced to two stories, with six vertical river passageways and seven courtyard spaces created. The spaces accommodate functions including water conservancy, cultural exhibitions, sports facilities, public rest areas, offices, and parking. Partial demolition preserved sections of concrete walls and beams, which interact with the new steel structures, framing light, shadow, and greenery while highlighting the historical essence of the site.

3. Re-layering the Seawall via Scenic Design

A lightweight, undulating roof constructed with ribbed steel sheets spans 8–24 meters, supported by cross-shaped I-columns and double-channel trusses. The roof and new steel platforms hover above the preserved concrete structure, integrating grass and green spaces between steel and concrete to reflect the ecological transformation from brownfield to riverfront greenery. Multi-tiered platforms and staircases create a three-dimensional promenade that allows visitors to experience light, nature, and movement along the embankment.

4. Relighting the Seawall for the Public

The design celebrates the cultural heritage of local fishing communities. The roof's undulating form evokes fishing nets drying along the riverbank, while the green slope mimics a fishing shuttle. Steps and fences echo river ripples, creating a playful and welcoming public atmosphere. This "city living room" encourages residents and visitors to linger, interact, and engage with the riverside environment.

The riverside promenade hosts both national cultural events—such as the ‘Sending the Great Heat Boat’ ceremony—and daily activities, including square dance gatherings and recreational sports. The design seamlessly connects areas inside and outside the embankment, becoming a popular destination for leisure, sightseeing, and community interaction.

As dusk falls, the lights illuminate the embankment, highlighting the river breeze, local culture, and vibrant community life. Residents engage visitors, sharing stories of the fishing culture, enjoying seafood, and participating in sports and dance, making the project feel like an integral part of the city’s everyday life.

All the photographs are works of ZY Architectural Photography, Original Design Studio