Zhejiang World Trade Center to have new face
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Hong Kong architectural and interior design practice Leigh & Orange (L&O) has been engaged to redesign the Zhejiang World Trade Center in Hangzhou.
Built in 1987, the centre was originally designed as a key foreign trade venue during the early years of Chinese economic reform. With the concept of a transit-oriented development, the new design will help rezone the hotel/office/convention centre clusters to become a catalyst for the business community.
In heart of the Huanglong financial district, near West Lake, the project is primarily an underground redevelopment with a construction area of 79,250sqm, including 24,700sqm of commercial spaces. The basement retail will be seamlessly connected to the metro, forming a public gathering space and focal point for the community.
Central to the design is a “retail park” concept, featuring an indoor sport-themed arcade and an outdoor park trail. There will be two major retail anchors, a sports-themed concept store and a flagship bookstore.
L&O project director Kelvin Li says the project will help shape the future of the Huanglong district. “With the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou, we hope to work hand-in-hand with Hangzhou Metro to transform this into a world-class mixed-used development. ”
Construction will start in April and is expected to complete in 2021.
Questions & Answers
Q.What is the primary focus of the redevelopment project for the Zhejiang World Trade Center?
What is the primary focus of the redevelopment project for the Zhejiang World Trade Center?
The project is primarily an underground redevelopment, covering a construction area of 79,250sqm. This includes 24,700sqm designated for commercial spaces, with basement retail connecting directly to the metro system.
Q.What key features are being incorporated into the new design for the centre?
What key features are being incorporated into the new design for the centre?
Central to the design is a “retail park” concept, featuring an indoor sport-themed arcade and an outdoor park trail. It will also include two major retail anchors: a sports-themed concept store and a flagship bookstore.
Q.When is construction expected to begin and finish for this project?
When is construction expected to begin and finish for this project?
Construction on the Zhejiang World Trade Center redevelopment is scheduled to start in April. The project is then expected to be completed in 2021, transforming the complex into a new mixed-use development.
Q.What was the original purpose of the Zhejiang World Trade Center when it was built?
What was the original purpose of the Zhejiang World Trade Center when it was built?
Built in 1987, the centre was originally designed to serve as a key foreign trade venue. This was during the early years of Chinese economic reform, supporting international business activities.
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