[Shanghai JOIN Architectural Design Co., Ltd. / Beijing BEM Architectural Engineering Design Co., Ltd. Shanghai Branch - At the Foot of Tianma Mountain: A Riddle in the Jiangnan Style of Shanghai - COVER IMG]

Yu Zeng / Mountain Whisper Architectural & Space Photography Studio (photographer)

At the Foot of Tianma Mountain: A Riddle in the Jiangnan Style of Shanghai

PrizeHonorable Mention in Architectural Design / Social Housing

Firm LocationShanghai, China

CompanyShanghai JOIN Architectural Design Co., Ltd. / Beijing BEM Architectural Engineering Design Co., Ltd. Shanghai Branch

Lead ArchitectPENG DU

Design TeamWUYANG HUI / GUOZHI HU

ClientThe People's Government of Sheshan Town, Songjiang District, Shanghai Municipality / The Villagers Committee of Xinzhai Village, Sheshan Town, Songjiang District

During the Spring and Autumn period,the Wu State master Gan Jiang forged swords here.The design of the new village is economical and everyday,using concrete and white paint, minimizing decoration.The shifting volumes of the buildings slow down visual flow,evoking the winding paths of ancient alleys.Along the homecoming route,the interlocking buildings form a montage of façade fragments,like a riddle,and holding the answer fills the residents with pride.The sculptural gables resemble horse-head walls, aiming to become a totemic logo,a symbol of community pride and connection to its history.