Xi’an CCBD by Heatherwick Studio: A Visionary Urban Landmark

The Xi’an Centre Culture Business District (CCBD), designed by Heatherwick Studio, is a groundbreaking mixed-use development in Xi’an, China. This 155,000 m² district celebrates the city’s rich heritage of craftsmanship and ceramics while establishing a vibrant urban landscape. Officially opened in December 2024, it reimagines the urban experience by blending retail, residential, office spaces, green areas, and public gathering spaces into a cohesive architectural vision.

Honoring Xi’an’s Cultural Legacy

Located south of Xi’an’s historic center, the CCBD finds itself between the iconic ruins of the Temple of Heaven and the Shaanxi TV Tower. The project draws inspiration from the city’s profound connection to ceramics, particularly the famed Terracotta Army. More than 100,000 handcrafted tiles, developed in collaboration with local artisans, adorn the facade, columns, and beams of the buildings. These tiles, featuring a distinctive glaze, were the result of over 2,000 experimental designs and full-scale mockups, offering a tactile and visual feast for visitors.

A Multi-Dimensional Urban Experience

Heatherwick Studio’s design transcends the conventional approach to large-scale developments by creating a three-dimensional urban landscape. Instead of isolated structures connected by streets, the district features walkable terraces, open plazas, and interlocking frames that foster interaction and community. The use of varying levels in the design allows for multiple vantage points, creating a dynamic visual complexity at every scale.

From afar, the district’s skyline evokes the traditional rooflines of Chinese temples. Up close, the interplay of ceramic textures, natural materials, and landscaping creates a human-scale experience that invites exploration. The meticulous attention to details—glazed lift buttons, hand-carved timber railings, and ceramic planters—ensures a sensory connection with the space.

The Xi’an Tree: A Vertical Park

At the heart of the district lies the Xi’an Tree, a stunning vertical park that serves as a central gathering point. This architectural centerpiece features 56 elevated terraces, or “petals,” cascading with gardens inspired by the biomes of the ancient Silk Route. Ascending over 57 meters, the Tree offers panoramic views of the district and the city beyond, creating a unique spatial experience that combines nature and urbanity.

A Holistic Approach to Public Spaces

The public spaces within the Xi’an CCBD are designed to foster engagement, relaxation, and community interaction. Streets converge at the central plaza, creating a lively atmosphere for visitors. The terraces and landscaped rooftops offer pockets of greenery, blending seamlessly with the city’s urban fabric. The district’s pedestrian-friendly design emphasizes accessibility, encouraging exploration and interaction across its varied levels.

Sustainability and Craftsmanship

The Xi’an CCBD embodies Heatherwick Studio’s commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship. Local artisans were integral to the project, with their expertise reflected in the unique ceramic tiles and other handcrafted details. By incorporating natural materials and integrating green spaces throughout the district, the project minimizes its ecological footprint while enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors.

A New Urban Model

Heatherwick Studio’s vision for the Xi’an CCBD challenges the traditional model of large-scale developments. The project prioritizes diversity, texture, and human-scale design over monolithic uniformity. By weaving history, culture, and nature into its architecture, the district creates a space that feels inherently connected to Xi’an’s identity while setting a new benchmark for urban design.

Xi’an CCBD as an Architectural Marvel

The Xi’an CCBD by Heatherwick Studio is more than just a commercial district—it is a celebration of Xi’an’s heritage and a bold reimagining of urban life. By integrating craftsmanship, sustainability, and innovative design, it establishes a vibrant, multi-dimensional space that will serve as a cultural and social hub for generations to come.

All Photographs are work of Yanqing Zhu, Luis Sacristan Murga