A Manifesto of Steel & Brick.

Situated in the center of China alongside the Yangtze River, Wuhan has long been praised for its convenient transportation and rich mineral sources. During the 1890s, Zhang Zhidong realized its marked influence on the whole country and triggered the urban and industrial development of the city. As a result, the original campus of the Hanyang Iron Plant was built. Over the later fifty years, the Hanyang Iron Plant had its time of glory and was relocated west to its original site after being demolished during WWⅡ. However, in the 21st century, the significance of industry decreased, and industrial zones were drawn to the periphery of the city. The enclosed factory areas that were originally in the center of the city were shut down and become forgotten barren places inaccessible to the public. Therefore, the heritage urges the need for transformation. The project thus aims to resolve the conflict between present urban development and the preservation of old buildings. The primary intervention is to break down the intimidating large-scale blocks and open up the campus to the public. Physical boundaries are eliminated and urban networks are introduced. Moreover, the former steel manufacturing industry is replaced by a digital publishing industry while some factories of historical value are reused as museums that are educational to the public. Through careful architectural intervention, the project preserves the industrial heritage while breathing new life into the space. The original steel and brick structures are maintained and enhanced, serving as a testament to the site's industrial past. The integration of modern elements creates a dialogue between old and new, while the introduction of public spaces and cultural facilities transforms what was once an isolated industrial complex into a vibrant community hub that celebrates both the city's history and its future.