The Shanghai Minhang Hengjing Port East Coast Waterfront Landscape Public Space Renovation Project, designed by SPARK Sibang, has recently been completed and opened. This marks the beginning of SPARK Sibang’s comprehensive renovation of public landscape spaces in Minhang District.
This ambitious urban renewal project transformed a once neglected area. Only 24 months ago, the overgrown riverbanks were in decline, with paths leading to dilapidated industrial warehouses and abandoned public facilities. The site reflected years of neglect and underuse.
▲ Before renovation
▲ After renovation
Today, the area has become a vibrant, central open space. It is connected by urban parks designed by SPARK, integrating commercial, technological, and mixed-use developments. Surrounding projects have also been upgraded, creating a cohesive urban environment.
SPARK’s design outlines a 750-meter-long leisure space that aligns with the vision of both the government and local community. The project promotes stronger connections among residents and fosters a more sustainable living environment.
The design concept draws inspiration from the patterns of single-cell diatoms—microscopic algae known for their beautiful forms and water-purifying qualities. SPARK abstracted these shapes into two- and three-dimensional forms to breathe life into the riverbanks and tell a story of ecological renewal.
The riverbank design features continuous green trails, running paths, and bike lanes, alongside three pedestrian bridges. These connections link residential, educational, and commercial areas within the community.
The landscape is structured into four distinct layered zones that enhance the waterfront experience and provide public access to the river for the first time. The linear sections adopt an abstract riverbank shape, featuring innovative spaces such as lawns, cafes, sports parks, and activity squares distributed along the waterfront.
SPARK also designed a series of custom road signs and urban furniture to enhance the storytelling and accessibility of the renovated space. Stephen Pimbley, SPARK partner, remarked, “The Minhang Waterfront Regeneration Project shows how urban open spaces can play a pivotal role in public regeneration and social sustainability. It fosters a sense of civic responsibility and sets a new standard for quality of life for future residents.”
Lin Wenhui, SPARK partner, added, “We are thrilled by this project’s potential. Our vision has breathed new life into the riverbank, creating a safe and inviting environment. It now attracts local residents, students, tourists, and business professionals alike, encouraging them to rediscover this once-forgotten riverside and celebrate its revival.”
Project Drawings
▲ General layout plan
▲ Plan of Part One
▲ Plan of Part Two
▲ Plan of Part Three
▲ Sectional view
▲ Sectional view
▲ Model diagram
▲ Concept diagram
▲ Sketch
Project Information
Architectural Design: SPARK
Area: 23,787 m²
Project Year: 2021
Photographers: Shine Lab, Wei Min
Project Directors: Stephen Pimbley, Lin Wenhui, Min Wei
Design Team: Yan Dan, Luca Maccarinelli, Zhu Qilin, Li Menghao, Ye Jun, Yang Xi
Principal: Shanghai Nanbinjiang Investment Development Co., Ltd
Location: Shanghai, China
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