Hongqi Village - SOM.

During my internship, I was responsible for model making and marketing drawings for this project. Historically, the Zhenru Temple district, also known as Hongqi Village, has been a key economic center in Shanghai. The area, crisscrossed by canals, spurred the development of fruit and seafood wholesale markets in the late 1990s. Today, the Zhenru China Overseas Center is emblematic of the district's evolution into a contemporary business hub. SOM's master plan integrates two office towers for China Overseas, the Huanyu Max shopping mall, a theater, and cultural amenities into a cohesive development. These functions are interwoven into a network of public spaces that complement the area's historic canals. The transit-oriented development, with entrances at all corners, serves as a welcoming public space for residents, workers, and visitors alike. At the southwest corner of the site, a pair of office towers forms a prominent gateway, connecting seamlessly to multiple retail levels, terrace-level amenities, and an underground transit station. The structural design allows for column-free interiors, creating flexible office layouts that can adapt to diverse needs. The facade design of the towers enhances natural ventilation, improving airflow within the workspaces. Terraces provide outdoor access and bring natural light into the central elevator lobbies. The materials used in the facade and public spaces reimagine traditional construction techniques through contemporary technologies, creating a modern yet respectful homage to the area's history. The towers' design is guided by both functional performance and aesthetics. The exteriors are minimal and timeless, while the interiors feature rich materials and fine detailing. The facade comprises glass panels arranged in a vertical sawtooth pattern, aligned with the column grid. Where the panels overlap, operable windows allow fresh air to circulate. A custom bronze-colored ceramic frit pattern adds dynamic texture and contrast. At the crown of the towers, a stepped parapet directs views toward the Bund and Pudong, enhancing the visual experience.