Around the World- Latest High-Rise Design in China

Check out WHA’s Urban Studio’s latest project from around the world. Located in Tianjin, China, TEDA is a high-density high-rise development designed for the luxury/business oriented buyer. Using the design principles established by the ancient Pingyao City as inspiration, the concept of “The five positions and four directions” of a compass is prevalent throughout the design. The site is broken into four smaller sites each representing a direction of the compass. Additionally, the typical hierarchy of directions is preserved with South as superior to the North and East as superior to the West. The 5th position is the center to maintain proper design etiquette.

The Four Seasons theme builds upon the foundation set by the Five Positions and Four Directions concept. The landscape design for each of the four blocks on the site relates to one of the four yearly seasons. For example, the Eastern parcel is designated spring and this is manifested by the presence of streams, lakes, lush plant life and a waterfall.

Sun exposure and building orientation were critical cultural design requirements that necessitated 3D modeling and shadow studies to achieve an optimal configuration of buildings and their courtyards. 

The tower in the center of the eastern public park has multiple functions.  First it is a focal point for the site and gives people a sense of orientation.  Secondly it functions as a large-scale sundial to relate to the site’s theme of the Four Seasons.  Finally, in the evening, lights at its top shine down on the plaza to extend the operational hours of the community park. 

Site Information

• The site is made up of 4 parcels with a total acreage of 25 acres.
• There are a total of 362 Units, of which 52 are Penthouses with private roof decks.
• Buildings range in height from 6 to 10 stories.
• The Client was Calandev LLC, a representative of Tianjin Warner Group