The former bay of Nansha in Guangzhou, once dotted with scattered islands and hills, has now become the geometric center of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Serving as a key hub connecting both sides of the strait, rapid urbanization is gradually transforming Nansha’s landscape. This high-density development is slowly eroding the natural environment where sea, islands, and hills once coexisted harmoniously.
Aedas was commissioned by the property owner to design Nansha Jiantao Square, an office and residential complex. The project aims to provide a relaxing and inviting space within this rapidly developing district, seamlessly integrating architecture with nature. Positioned at Guangzhou’s southernmost point, it acts as a “gateway to the city,” where water and sky merge into one.
The site is located in Jiaomen, the central core of the Nansha Free Trade Zone, which is set to become one of Nansha’s three major transportation hubs. Situated near Jiaomen Metro Station, the plot stretches along the north-south axis of Jiaomen River, offering expansive views. To the east lies the scenic Jiaomen River, while Phoenix Lake graces the southwest. Across the river, the Nansha District Government building faces the site, enhancing its prominence.
Despite the site’s exceptional location, its irregular shape and proximity to subway and light rail lines pose significant design challenges. The primary goal was to ensure that no building directly faces noise sources while maximizing access to landscape views, thereby creating a comfortable environment.
The solution involved splitting and twisting building volumes to create a 45-degree zigzag configuration between towers and podiums. This design forms a buffer zone between the western subway track and the tower, reducing noise impact. The zigzag layout also prevents direct sightlines between towers, optimizes landscape views, enhances southern exposure for natural light, and supports natural ventilation. This compact and innovative approach gives the development a distinct identity.
The design draws inspiration from the white space technique of the Lingnan School of Painting. By segmenting, stacking, and rotating volumes, the architecture achieves a balance of void and solid, reminiscent of the subtle beauty of traditional ink paintings.
△ Hand-drawn sketch
△ The design is inspired by the blank space technique of the Lingnan School of Painting
The tower ascends stepwise from south to north, symbolizing the concept of “climbing upward.” Its sculptural form echoes the peaks of southern Guangdong, rugged and commanding, harmonizing with the distant hills. This architectural expression not only envisions the future of the Nansha Free Trade Zone but also embodies the design philosophy. Positioned at the gateway of the future city, located at the confluence of the Three Rivers, it establishes an ecological, open, and distinctive entrance to the South China Sea.
Project Drawings
△ Project Location
△ Second Floor Plan
△ Standard Floor Plan of Lower Zone
△ Top Floor Plan of Upper Zone
△ Section Diagram
△ Section Diagram
△ Schematic Diagram of Project Layout
Project Information
Architectural Design: Aedas
Area: 80,762 m²
Project Year: 2021
Client: Guangzhou Zhan Yuan Real Estate Co., Ltd.
Location: Guangzhou, China
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