Siming Liu

In an increasingly stratified and complex Chinese society, gating of residential spaces are acts of political classification and used by the state as a tool to maintain order and social stability. The top-down approach of built resettlement communities in suburban areas is a passive choice for farmers who have unique lifestyles and cultural backgrounds.

There are many obstacles in the daily life of the residents of the Zuolingxincheng community. The most prominent problem is that the community has a large population density and residents do not have enough public space to socialize, and each community is relatively isolated and lacks connectivity. The river, which is the center of the community, has been neglected due to pollution and lack of design. The design builds a vibrant and inclusive resettlement community where strong partnerships maximize the potential of the district's broad and diverse attractions, amenities, and experiences of different lifestyles.

Through redesign, the riverbank becomes the landmark inside of the community, attracting all groups of people to come and interact. The water network is bought into and interwoven with the neighborhood ecological system, regenerating the neighborhood and creating an environment that nurtures ecology, residents, and visitors alike. Besides, the design reorganizes the derelict underground spaces and built overpasses that crosses and connects the hot spots to strengthen the social linkages and provide extra open space for exchanging and sharing food and products.