Holcim Foundation for Sustainable Construction - Clan Settlement Regeneration, China

The exacting nature of the conservation work has resulted in steady progress on the regeneration of the rich urban fabric of the City of Hangzhou.

Holcim Awards Gold 2005 Asia Pacific
Overview Since the project received the Holcim Awards Gold 2005 for Asia Pacific, locals have started to undertake the detailed conservation and rehabilitation work for the single buildings and courtyards one-by-one.
Main author Prof Chang Qing, Head of Department of Architecture, Tongji University, China

Project background
This urban conservation and regeneration project is working with the historic fabric of an existing neighborhood. Rather than demolishing the old substance, thus complying with so-called tabula rasa urbanism, the project combines preservation, remodeling, and new construction to meet contemporary lifestyle demands.

Part of the undertaking also involves the introduction of public functions to existing landmark buildings. The proposal demonstrates how old and new can coexist, countering the modern dictum to erase the past.

Dedicated conservation of cultural fabric
Since the project received the Holcim Awards Gold 2005 for Asia Pacific, locals have started to undertake the detailed conservation and rehabilitation work for the single buildings and courtyards one-by-one.

The images show an example from the cultural fabric of the settlement – Shenjian Tang, a famous courtyard in the settlement.

Due to the exacting nature of the conservation work, progress is gradual. The heritage buildings are restored with integrity including detail such as wooden beams and brackets.

Last updated: 26-Apr-2011

Image gallery - Design for a Clan Settlement's Regeneration, Hangzhou, China
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