The opportunity
Beijing-based HYHW Architects were invited to join a design competition for the creation of a regional masterplan in the Jiading district to the north-west of Shanghai. The large site is located between Jiading City, Nanxiang City and Anting City. The connections between the three cities are currently constrained by a vehicle traffic-oriented infrastructure, disconnected street network and a poor quality public realm. Space Syntax was appointed to undertake analysis to provide the team with an understanding of the opportunities and constraints of the site and to assist in developing strategic design proposals.

Our contribution
Using in-depth case study analyses of large urban conurbations such as Barcelona and London, a set of key design principles was developed and used to assess the existing situation and to develop the emerging design with HYHW in terms of spatial layout, land use strategy and transport planning. The design vision connects the three town centres (yellow circles) through boulevards (red lines), the central canal (blue line) and north-south links (green lines).

The outcome
Space Syntax’s recommendations were communicated to the design team throughout the competition process and are embedded in the final proposals.