(Photo: Atelier Liu Yuyang Architects / Zhu Runzi, Liang Junhao)
In an ambitious project, Atelier Liu Yuyang Architects has transformed a former rail line in Shanghai's Putuo District into a vibrant, multilevel, mixed-use park called Caoyang Centennial Park. This redevelopment project, dubbed the '3K Corridors,' reimagines the nearly one-kilometer-long space that once housed the Zhenru freight rail branch line and later the Caoyang Farmers' Market. The market closed in 2019 and gave way to this innovative green space designed to integrate art into community life and promote organic renewal within the Caoyang Community.
A Historical Transformation
Caoyang Xincun, the site of the new park, is historically significant as the first planned workers' community by the PRC government. The site was characterized by market houses lined along an abandoned railway for over two decades. The transformation into a city park was driven by the district government and its sub-district office, aiming to enhance residents' living standards and spatial quality. Despite a tight schedule, the project progressed smoothly, with the initial design sketched in just two days and finalized within two weeks. The Park was completed and opened to the public within a year, showcasing efficient coordination and execution.
(Photo: Atelier Liu Yuyang Architects / Zhu Runzi, Liang Junhao)
Expanding Community Spaces
Atelier Liu Yuyang Architects expanded the narrow site threefold through a multilevel strategy, creating spaces serving nearby residents, schools, and offices. Given the constraints due to the proximity of an underground tunnel and surrounding buildings, the architects excavated a semi-basement to a depth of one meter. The first level was raised to 1.4 meters, forming a semi-basement as a social 'container' for temporary programs such as art exhibitions, community activities, and creative markets. The Highline is limited to 3.8 meters to avoid disturbing nearby residences. The Park, which stretches 880 meters, is divided into north and south sections, featuring ten distinct scenarios for public functions like gatherings, activities, entertainment, leisure, and sports.
Design and Functionality
The park's design integrates seamlessly with the community. The north gate, serving as the main entrance, blends with the facades of nearby buildings, creating a cohesive entrance space. A double-line highway over Lanxi Road allows for an extended walking experience. In the south section, a circular corridor connects two highline paths, integrating hackberry trees into the structure and encouraging interaction with greenery.
(Photo: Atelier Liu Yuyang Architects / Zhu Runzi, Liang Junhao)
Color and Structure Strategy
The park's color scheme was given significant attention to ensure it fit aesthetically within the community. The main structure was silver-grey, with the inner sides painted orange to convey vitality. The semi-basement features a silver-white and yellow color scheme, differentiating it from the lighter ground floor space. This thoughtful approach to color enhances the park's overall harmony.
Inspired by railway platforms, lightly structured arc canopies provide sunshades while maintaining a natural experience. These canopies are colored in five shades, helping zone the park and serve as navigational aids for visitors.
(Photo: Atelier Liu Yuyang Architects / Zhu Runzi, Liang Junhao)
Community Engagement and Integration
Extensive dialogue with nearby residents and institutions ensured the park met community needs. Various wall designs were developed based on community preferences, from block walls with washed stone finishes to steel structures, allowing visual connections and plant growth. This collaborative approach resulted in a dynamic and responsive park design, demonstrating how leftover urban spaces can be creatively utilized and rejuvenated.
The transformation of the former rail line into Caoyang Centennial Park by Atelier Liu Yuyang Architects illustrates how urban redevelopment can breathe new life into overlooked spaces. By integrating art and promoting organic renewal, the project reflects the 2021 Shanghai SUSAS theme and enhances the living standards and spatial quality of the Caoyang Community. This nearly one-kilometer-long, vine-like walking belt is a testament to innovative design and community-centric urban planning.