△ Architectural bird’s-eye view rendering © SOPA
Shenzhen is known worldwide as the “Capital of Innovation.” Within it, Bao’an district is thriving, driven by a foundation of “manufacturing support and service empowerment.” Against this backdrop, the “Industrial Upstairs” project at Bao’an Passenger Transport Center will emerge as a new model for a science and technology innovation cluster. This project not only strengthens the industrial base but also leads the way in high-tech innovation.
△ Architectural bird’s-eye view rendering © SOPA
To reduce costs and increase efficiency, two factory buildings have been designed and arranged as separate blocks. This layout facilitates easy distinction between owner-occupied and saleable spaces. The factory areas adapt flexibly to production needs, respecting industrial requirements through inclusive design. Efficient collaboration and traffic flow are achieved through careful organization, honoring production logic. Additionally, the design allows for market changes via a plugin system and flexible customization options.
△ Layout of factory buildings across different blocks © SOPA
△ Single-layer subleasing model for factory buildings © SOPA
△ Single-story rental model for factory buildings © SOPA
△ Plugin system © SOPA
How does the project foster collaboration between research, development, and pilot production? To maximize synergy, the office building is divided into two zones: a lower zone dedicated to science and technology innovation focused on R&D efficiency, and an upper zone serving as the business core prioritizing quality.
The lower zone combines R&D and pilot production factories, increasing the industrial R&D component of the project. This space is designed as a collaborative hub for cutting-edge innovation and application, aiming to become Bao’an’s creative nerve center that attracts and retains talented young professionals.
△ Architectural bird’s-eye view rendering © SOPA
△ Architectural exterior rendering © SOPA
To enhance transportation efficiency between multiple functions, a “Cartesian Hub” or “Orthogonal Hub” connects all buildings and functions across the XYZ axes. Community functions are strategically placed at intersections to facilitate smooth commuting between offices, dormitories, commercial areas, and factories. The design incorporates 15 direct connections among six functional zones to boost communication and interaction.
△ XYZ axis orthogonal hub © SOPA
△ Orthogonal Hub Space Rendering © SOPA
The Bao’an Bus Station subway station acts as a catalyst in the region, fostering a TOD-driven industrial and R&D center. The project extends the subway hub concept into the building hub, enhancing three-dimensional transport connectivity and linking six major functions. Each area will feature an integrated road network with thoughtful layering and cross-functional mutual support.
This distinctive hub is clearly organized, serving as a gathering point for all users and connecting the site with the city. The hub atrium provides an impressive first impression and fosters shared creativity in manufacturing and services.
△ Orthogonal Hub Space Analysis © SOPA
△ Connection with subway transportation © SOPA
The R&D bridge linking two building volumes forms a spatial focal point, located between the city and the sky. It is designed to foster cooperation and communication, empowering collaboration and innovation among the building’s users.
△ R&D Bridge Perspective Rendering © SOPA
△ Tower entrance rendering © SOPA
To cultivate an industrial cluster, the project extends community functions into both living and production service communities. The production community includes supporting services such as project financing, intellectual property management, and resource matchmaking to enhance clustering effects.
By integrating resources effectively, the building forms a comprehensive industrial community network that fosters scientific and technological innovation, creating an ecosystem to facilitate the transformation of intelligent industries.
Expansion of Community Functions © SOPA
△ Living, Production, and Service Communities © SOPA
How does the “Industrial Upstairs” project become a city landmark? The staggered block arrangement allows more natural light and views to penetrate the building interior. Its modular and flexible design not only rationalizes construction but also provides a unified foundation that integrates urban diversity and multiple systems into a simple, elegant, and precise industrial complex.
△ Architectural bird’s-eye view rendering © SOPA
△ Tower Crown Rendering © SOPA
The multi-level, progressively smaller volumes and breathable rooftop design reduce wind loads, structural weight, energy consumption, and construction costs. The office courtyard connects dormitory floors via shared spaces, optimizing the microclimate and offering a three-dimensional garden leisure area for R&D staff and residents alike.
The sleek and refined façade embodies Bao’an’s diversity. Its unique design reflects elements of transportation, engines, and microchips, symbolizing the corporate identity and pioneering spirit of the owner, Fangbao Jiaotou.
△ Architectural exterior rendering © SOPA
The drone terminal tower at the top is a standout feature. Divided into three zones—cargo drones, manned drones, and waiting halls—it aims to explore and showcase new transportation modes. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Bao’an’s Tongshan and Dahai areas while waiting or sightseeing, experiencing a seamless blend of technology and transit.
△ Tower Crown UAV Terminal Design © SOPA
△ Unmanned aerial vehicle terminal tower © SOPA
△ Manned aircraft apron © SOPA
△ Tower Crown Indoor Space Rendering © SOPA
By respecting production logic, minimizing costs, maximizing efficiency, and leveraging technology, the “Industrial Upstairs” project at Bao’an Passenger Transport Center is set to become a landmark development in Shenzhen. Inspired by transportation, it aims to establish a new industrial zone centered on production, research, and community benefit.
△ Design Model © SOPA
Project Drawings
Project Information
Project Name: “Industrial Upstairs” Project of Bao’an Passenger Transport Center Urban Renewal Unit, Xixiang Street, Bao’an District
Project Type: Architecture
Location: Bao’an District, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province
Scheme Status: Winning bid candidate
Design Period: October 2023 – January 2024
Land Area: 22,506.5 square meters
Building Area: 182,425 square meters
Design Firm: Society Particular (SOPA) Zuocheng Architecture
Lead Architect: Cui Yong
Design Team: Lu Ping, Guo Xin, Mindaugas Glodenis, Ignas Rackauskas, Zhang Jingru, Lin Ran, Zhao Mingzhan, Yu Tong, He Jinghan, Wang Xianyi
Other Participating Units:
Class A Design Institute: Shenzhen Huazhu Engineering Design Co., Ltd
Elevator Consultant: Buro Happold
Owner: Shenzhen Baotou Transportation Development Co., Ltd
Video copyright: SOPA
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