The 24-meter-tall two-story Parc Central has a notably lower profile than its high-rise neighbors, however, still stands out with its eye-catching form. The project’s beautiful curvaceous shape was inspired by “Double Fish,” a symbol for peace, harmony, and fortune in Chinese culture. The pair of buildings curves around the central gardens and is linked together by a pedestrian bridge. The undulating and monocoque ETFE roof canopies, integrated with a rainwater collection system, have a fluid, water-like appearance that’s soothing to the eye when viewed from above.
“Forming the heart of the development, the landscape, with its varying levels and forms of greenery, has created a place to socialise, rest and relax; a ‘Place to breathe’ within the city centre,” writes Benoy. “Much of the development has been placed underground to achieve this and preserve the ground level environment.” The lush landscaping and living walls blend seamlessly into the surrounding streetscape. Greenery can also be enjoyed from within the building, which looks out to the cityscape through low-E glass facades. Large atriums punctuate the roof and let in generous amounts of natural light.
Related: World’s largest monocoque roof is taking form atop China’s Suzhou Center
Parc Central was also completed as a Transit Oriented Development (TOD) and serves as a new public transport interchange to Guangzhou. The buildings are seamlessly connected above and below ground to the bus network and metro system that surrounds the site on four sides.
+ Benoy
+ Ronald Lu and Partners
Images via Benoy
