Solar Trees Marketplace is Koichi Takada Architects latest project in China, located in the Minhang district, 20 kms south-west of Shanghai. The three-story mixed-use development will serve as a gateway to the new Shanghai Tian An Caobao Road Area Residential Masterplan by Tian An China. The overall floor area of 3,450 square meters will accommodate modular market stalls. Currently, under construction, the development is due for completion at the end of 2021.
Inspired by the rich landscape and forests of Shanghai, thirty-two architectural ‘trees’, rise from the ground to form a canopy of timber branches above the marketplace. Echoing the green spine that connects the 155,000 square metre residential master plan, the forest concept also references China’s commitment to be Carbon Neutral by 2060, setting a new green benchmark for mixed-use residential developments.
Introducing a unique landscape to the Minhang district, Solar Trees demonstrates it is possible, through a nature-inspired approach, to transform one of the world’s most polluted and congested urban environments into a healthier and more sustainable place to live.
Engagingly Green Architecture
Distinguished by its biophilic structure, Solar Trees incorporates considered environmental and sustainable design initiatives. The timber branches and leaves of thirty-two man-made trees sit above the footpath provide shelter and shade, while allowing natural light and fresh air permeate the marketplace. Solar panels translucent canopies generate power for the development and provide a visual cue to Tian An China’s green agenda.
A future for traditional Chinese marketplaces
The inclusion of modular market stalls will bring authenticity to the contemporary development, referencing their history and cultural gathering spaces and allowing a new generation to gather at its heart. Reflecting the Chinese tradition of making guests feel at home – bīn zhìī – the marketplace will generate a powerful sense of community and integrate private and public domains.
A Boulevard of Native Trees
The inclusion of modular market stalls will bring authenticity to the contemporary development, referencing their history and cultural gathering spaces and allowing a new generation to gather at its heart. Reflecting the Chinese tradition of making guests feel at home – bīn zhìī – the marketplace will generate a powerful sense of community and integrate private and public domains.
We want to humanise buildings in the district, to be more engaging to the public and contribute to the regeneration of communities and their neighbourhoods. We want architecture to celebrate cultural identity, along with encouaraging pedestrian activities and a more walkable and liveable city
