Zhejiang University “Two Institutes” in Quzhou by Architecturestudio: A Model of Sustainable, Interdisciplinary Campus Design

Designed by international firm Architecturestudio, the Zhejiang University “Two Institutes” campus in Quzhou, Zhejiang Province, China—home to the Zhejiang University Quzhou Research Institute and the Quzhou Branch of the College of Engineering—is a visionary fusion of education, research, and innovation set within an ecologically driven urban landscape.

Spanning 163 acres with a built area of 159,000 square meters, the project was the winning design in an international architectural competition held in 2019. Realized in collaboration with China Shanghai Architectural Design & Research Institute Co., Ltd., the campus officially opened its doors in June 2022. The project embodies the idea of a "living campus"—an open, sustainable, and adaptive environment where people can work, live, study, and collaborateseamlessly.

A Tree-Like Layout for the South Zone: Modular Science & Innovation Hub

The South Zone of the campus is a dynamic scientific research and industrial incubation center. Conceptually designed with a tree-structured layout, this area consists of a network of interconnected buildings linked by open corridors to foster accessibility and interdisciplinary synergy. Research labs in this zone are modular and adaptable, built to accommodate evolving scientific demands while supporting long-term building sustainability.

Each lab can be reconfigured, combined, or divided based on functionality and collaboration requirements. This modular flexibility not only maximizes usage but also encourages cross-disciplinary research innovation, making it a progressive hub for technological incubation.

North Zone: Administrative, Academic, and Living Functions in One Ecosystem

The North Zone of the campus integrates teaching, administration, student housing, and wellness facilities. At its heart stands the Administration Building, a landmark structure marking the main entrance to the university. Linked by a continuous podium, this area connects to the Conference Center, International Exchange Center, Gymnasium, and multiple Dormitory Blocks, all designed to maximize comfort, usability, and environmental harmony.

Innovative design strategies such as terraced green roofs, foldable gymnasium doors for indoor-outdoor flexibility, and multi-use public plazas enhance the functional and aesthetic qualities of the built environment. Dormitories are thoughtfully connected to public spaces, making student life more interactive and vibrant.

Architectural Language and Sustainable Features

The campus is clad with white ceramic panels and milky white aluminum façades, creating a minimalist yet iconic architectural identity. The double-skin curtain walls used on the East and West facades promote natural ventilation, reduce heat gain, and enhance energy efficiency, in line with the campus’s low-carbon development vision.

The rooftops also follow fifth façade principles, smartly concealing technical equipment while maintaining visual purity. Horizontal and vertical elements play with rhythm and proportion, ensuring that each building responds contextually to light, views, and function.

Landscape, Identity, and Campus Culture

At the heart of the design lies a central urban plaza, acting as a connective tissue between the natural waterfront and academic spaces. The riverfront park doubles as a city-facing green buffer and a signature landscape element that defines the university's image.

In the South Zone, quieter private courtyards contrast with more public areas, encouraging reflection and smaller group interactions. The North Zone boasts sculpted lawns, plazas, and communal green areas that host open-air events and casual meetings—fostering a vibrant academic culture.

This spatial diversity gives rise to a “borderless campus” where architecture, environment, and community interact organically.

Architecturestudio has envisioned a university that blurs the line between nature and structure, offering a framework that adapts as needs evolve. From flexible research spaces to human-centered student housing and eco-integrated landscapes, the Zhejiang University “Two Institutes” campus in Quzhou sets a new standard in sustainable educational design and architectural innovation.

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