ELEVATED RED PATH CONNECTS FOREST AND SPORTS PARK
25 Mar 2021
Designed by a trio of firms, this park in China serves a new destination for recreation and relaxation, known as the “forest and sports park”.
The collaborative creation of LOLA Landscape Architects, TALLER Architects, and Land and Civilization Compositions (LCC), the Forest and Sports Park is located in the Guangming district of Shenzhen — a region known for its technological and entrepreneurial approach. Consequently, the design team says that its ambition was to create a setting that was as innovative as the city itself, adapting to the evolving needs of its users.
LOLA, TALLER and LCC designed an elevated red path that provides access to the neighbouring forest and offers views of the city and mountains beyond. In this way, the destination serves as a transitional space between the city of Guangming and the forest reserve. While the region finds success in innovative industries, the park focuses on innovation in the fields of sports and ecology.
Two research and development centres, one for sports and one for botany, are centrally located. The design team explains that, from here, a constant evolution and diversification of the park takes place. On the central loop, a linear plant and tree nursery is integrated. Meanwhile, within the natural forest setting, visitors are able to get to know new and forgotten sports, as well as the latest techniques used in these activities.
The red path forms a landmark for the region that connects the park with both the city and the forest. As part of the route, a series of pavilions serve as restaurants, restrooms, viewing platforms, and forest cabins. In order to minimise the environmental impact, these modular structures were prefabricated offsite. By placing them on stilts, the structures free up ground space, while providing valuable shade for visitors during hot summer months.
With the first phase of the 600 hectare project almost complete, the park has already become a landmark destination for the region. At the first edition of the World Architecture Festival (WAF) China, the design was honoured with the WAFChina 2020 for excellent design as well as the overall best landscape award. Construction on the second phase of the park is expected to get underway in 2021.
Images courtesy of LOLA, TALLER & LCC via designboom
