Chang'an Innovation Square Renovation by Zhutao Architecture Design Studio

Chang’an Innovation Square Renovation

Chang’an Innovation Square, a project by Zhutao Architecture Design Studio, demonstrates the transformative power of architectural renovation in reimagining industrial spaces for contemporary use. Located in Dongguan, China, this project revitalizes an old factory district, breathing new life into Chang’an Town, known for its rich cultural history. With an area of over 24,183 m², the Chang’an Innovation Square renovation bridges the past and present, creating an engaging public space that harmonizes innovation and tradition.

Project Overview

Architects: Zhutao Architecture Design Studio

Lead Architect: Tao Zhu

Location: Dongguan, China

Project Area: 24,183 m²

Year of Completion: 2019

Photography: Ran Luo

Concept Behind the Chang’an Innovation Square Renovation

The Chang’an Innovation Square renovation focuses on creating a multi-dimensional urban space known as “Super Link,” enhancing the interaction between space, industry, and system within Chang’an’s evolving urban landscape. By integrating community spaces and encouraging pedestrian flow, this design facilitates a new wave of urban development while respecting the town’s industrial roots.

The project was initiated by a government client who sought to convert the old factory zone into a vibrant innovation park. The design strategy emphasizes creating a “linear community,” transforming shops, residences, and warehouses along the main street to establish a continuous and dynamic 300-meter urban interface.

Key Architectural Strategies in Chang’an Innovation Square Renovation

1. Line Strategy: Forming a 300-Meter Urban Interface

To unify the area, Zhutao Architecture Design Studio created a continuous 300-meter facade along North Lianfeng Road. This prominent “line” acts as a powerful connector, linking nearby community parks, gyms, and public spaces. A steel canopy, affectionately termed the “flying carpet,” was designed to join the street-facing buildings under a single architectural feature. This canopy, adorned in the traditional orange and ochre hues associated with Chang’an’s history, celebrates the local heritage associated with the Li family, descendants of the Tang Dynasty's Emperor Taizong.

2. Point Strategy: Establishing Key Entryways

The Chang’an Innovation Square renovation introduces two primary gateways to the square. Positioned strategically at the intersections of major roads, these entrances establish a three-dimensional flow of movement, connecting various levels within the complex. Open staircases were installed on both the north and south ends of Building #2, creating inviting entrances that guide visitors through the public spaces.

3. Plane Strategy: A 3D Pedestrian Network

The design integrates three levels (0m, 6m, and 15m) into a cohesive pedestrian network, allowing for easy flow between levels through corridors, staircases, and urban gardens. This vertical connectivity not only enhances accessibility but also fosters a sense of openness and inclusion, inviting residents and visitors to explore the multi-layered space.

Architectural Details of Chang’an Innovation Square Renovation

Dialogue Between Old and New

The Chang’an Innovation Square renovation emphasizes a balanced dialogue between the existing architecture and new additions. During an inspection, the team discovered Building #2’s unfinished third level, offering an opportunity to seamlessly merge the new and old structures.

To pay homage to the original factory buildings, the design features vertical red-brown tile cladding on new facades, while the old structures retain their horizontal tiling. This visual distinction subtly separates the old from the new, respecting the original character while establishing a refreshed look.

Innovative Structural Solutions

To ground the new steel canopy, Zhutao Architecture Design Studio implemented three distinct methods:

• At street corners and canopy ends: Columns directly land on the ground, establishing a stable foundation.
• At staircases: Columns are set at the level of the steps or platform, integrating seamlessly with the building’s flow.
• On the rooftop: Columns land on the original, exposed column heads, creating a secure, cohesive structure.

These strategies reinforce the architectural vision of continuity and structural integrity across the renovated site.

Enhancing Public Space in Chang’an Innovation Square Renovation

Creating Gathering Spaces

The Chang’an Innovation Square renovation design includes two main public gathering spaces: the open entrances and the Gathering Park. Located at both ends of Building #2, these areas provide access to the square from different directions, enhancing the district’s sense of openness.

The Gathering Park integrates commercial spaces and encourages foot traffic along the newly activated back lane. By connecting this previously overlooked area with the main square, the project revitalizes the pedestrian experience and fosters community interaction.

Embracing Cultural Identity

The renovation respects Chang’an’s unique cultural identity by incorporating design elements that reflect the town’s connection to the Tang Dynasty. Orange terracotta and glazed tiles represent this historical lineage and add vibrancy to the public spaces, creating a link between the architectural style and the community’s shared heritage.

Sustainable Urban Renewal Through Chang’an Innovation Square Renovation

The Chang’an Innovation Square renovation exemplifies how adaptive reuse can transform underutilized industrial sites into thriving public spaces. By preserving existing structures and integrating green spaces, the project enhances the area’s sustainability and strengthens community ties. Chang’an Innovation Square now serves as a model for urban renewal in Dongguan and other industrial towns across China.

Chang’an Innovation Square – A Blueprint for Urban Innovation

The Chang’an Innovation Square renovation by Zhutao Architecture Design Studio not only revitalizes a historic industrial district but also sets a precedent for future urban redevelopment projects. With its thoughtful integration of community spaces, sustainable design practices, and cultural heritage elements, this project proves that adaptive reuse is essential to building resilient and vibrant urban environments.

All photographs are work of Ran Luo