In the heart of Chengdu, China, the Gaobei Community Neighborhood Center emerges as a testament to renewal and transformation. Formerly a neglected real estate sales office, abandoned for nearly a decade, this expansive land, once plagued by dampness and mosquito breeding, now stands as a vibrant community hub. LEL DESIGN STUDIO, with a vision for community renewal, has turned the forsaken space into a thriving center, harmonizing with the lush surroundings.

Tailoring Spaces to Daily Life

Positioned at the intersection of community and daily life, the project stems from a meticulous survey of the urban and community spaces surrounding the neighborhood center. The aim is to craft a center that aligns with the authentic needs of residents, exuding a friendly, open atmosphere, and fostering a sense of daily life.

Conceptualizing Spaces: A Forest Haven and Living Room

Amidst two temporary structures and a disused sales office, surrounded by dense foliage, the design embraces the site’s natural elevation. The central small square, juxtaposed with peripheral roads, manifests as a sunken square area and a community living room. This innovative approach transforms the bustling city exterior into an internal “forest.” The community living room, aptly named the “Gaobei Living Room,” becomes a pivotal public space for diverse community activities.

Dynamic Community Living Room

The oval-shaped community living room, cocooned by greenery, serves as a dynamic hub for various public activities. Residents flock to this vibrant space for performances, concerts, sports events, movies, and a myriad of unexpected yet delightful activities.

Thriving Forest Green Island

The Forest Green Island breathes life into abandoned model houses, integrating community commerce and services. Retaining the site’s original mature trees, the design enhances the environmental landscape, providing residents with green and healthy activity spaces. The island becomes a focal point for community engagement and interaction.

Service Center in the Forest

Anticipating the site’s future as a service center, the facade undergoes a renovation. The design focuses on enhancing natural light and increasing transparency within the community living room, ensuring a seamless blend with the surroundings.

Community Renewal: Shaping Public Spirit

Beyond adapting to local conditions and reviving neglected urban areas, community renewal is about fostering public participation. Gaobei Community Neighborhood Center stands as a beacon, stimulating community spirit, and reshaping the essence of public life for its residents.