BIM Architecture and Photography Showcase: Beijing Central Park Plaza by Yang Bin

The filming journey began at Beijing Central Park Square, emerging from the Chaoyang Park subway station. Two towering dark towers immediately caught my eye, their unique character unmistakable. The sculptural form and harmonious integration with the environment truly embody the essence of this architecture. While shooting, I aimed to capture the moment where architecture and nature seem to blend seamlessly.

Upon arrival, we conducted a thorough reconnaissance of the area and identified four distinct building types: two mountain-shaped tower buildings, a staggered corridor-style apartment building, a partially stepped-back commercial building, and six corridor-style office buildings arranged in a tiered progression. Our focus was primarily on the two tower buildings, weaving stories through the lens during the shoot.

Due to their height, the towers limited shooting angles within the office courtyard. Only two spots offered a full perspective: a distant view near the southeast entrance of the square, and a close-up near the sunken courtyard’s south side. Beyond the sunken courtyard, only partial views of the towers could be captured. The left road of the project (BIM) is an internal lane with limited angles, while the main lane runs along the east side. From the southeast corner intersection along this road, a series of tower perspectives can be taken, potentially including a panoramic view offering an excellent visual experience.

Additionally, classic angles are available near the northeast corner of the project, close to the south gate of Chaoyang Park (BIM training). Careful attention to traffic safety is essential at this T-shaped intersection. Inspired to find unique perspectives, I entered Chaoyang Park and walked counterclockwise around the lake, photographing the towers partially hidden within the cityscape. Nearby, a memorial archway beside a temple on the south side of a small island creates a natural frame with the project, capturing a vibrant composition of the colorful archway and the buildings.

Here is a real-life image of the project:

▲ Front perspective of the towers © Yang Bin

The Chaoyang Park Plaza, a showcase of futuristic technology, adjoins Chaoyang Park and emphasizes the harmonious concept of mountains and water. It employs the ancient Chinese technique of “borrowing scenery,” seamlessly integrating architecture with both the park and the urban environment. The development consists of ten individual buildings arranged in a staggered layout, creating a picturesque landscape reminiscent of natural mountains and waters.

▲ Street corner perspective © Yang Bin

The building’s exterior features a dark color palette with flowing curves as the dominant form, evoking a quiet, mysterious, and futuristic atmosphere. This design allows natural light to penetrate the buildings from all directions, while the dark glass effectively reduces heat gain from direct sunlight.

▲ Partial view of the tower © Yang Bin

The project’s signage and wayfinding system were personally designed by Japanese graphic design master Genya Hara. The overall design reflects a perfect balance of “simplicity” and “refinement.”

▲ Front perspective of the tower © Yang Bin

▲ Partial tower view © Yang Bin

▲ Street corner perspective © Yang Bin

The “landscape” concept extends to technological innovation as well. Integrated within the ridge line of the tower’s exterior facade is a ventilation and filtration system that channels natural wind into each floor. This sustainable design earned Chaoyang Park Plaza LEED Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.

▲ Partial tower view © Yang Bin

▲ Partial tower view © Yang Bin

▲ Street corner perspective © Yang Bin

The landscape woven through the black buildings incorporates traditional elements such as pine, bamboo, stone, and ponds, evoking a deep connection to classical spatial aesthetics.

▲ Partial tower view © Yang Bin

▲ Distant perspective © Yang Bin

▲ Distant perspective © Yang Bin

Project Information:

Architect: MAD Architecture Firm

Design Team: Ma Yansong, Party Masses, Yokosuke Hayano

Location: Chaoyang District, Beijing, China

Category: Office

Building Area: 223,009 square meters

Year of Completion: 2018

Copyright Notice: All images above are © Yang Bin. Unauthorized reproduction is prohibited.

Photographer’s email: __AI_S_SC0__

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