The international studio Büro Ole Scheeren has unveiled its new project, the Houhai Hybrid Campus, in the Houhai district of Shenzhen. Introduced on the eve of the 45th anniversary of the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone, the project aims to create a link between the city’s commercial center and the natural bayfront. The proposed design covers over 230,000 square meters of built-up area and is already considered one of the most prominent urban development projects in China.
The complex consists of four towers, each with a specific function: office spaces, co-living apartments, a hotel for short-term stays, and serviced suites for long-term residents. The towers are connected by a network of elevated walkways and have direct access to Shenzhen Metro. At the lower levels, retail spaces and urban pathways are integrated to ensure the complex fits seamlessly into the city fabric.
The architectural form of the project is characterized by curved volumes and fluid surfaces, with rooftops transformed into open spaces and public terraces. At the center of the design lies an “urban oasis,” featuring multiple levels of walkways, reflecting pools, fountains, and diverse greenery. This design not only enhances environmental quality but also provides shade, reduces temperature, and creates a pleasant experience for residents and visitors.
The exterior landscape of the project is inspired by Shenzhen’s green roots and connects seamlessly to the adjacent Talent Park. Paved pathways and seasonally adaptive vegetation create a strong sense of connection with the surrounding nature. At the same time, dedicated pedestrian and cycling routes across multiple levels are smoothly integrated to enhance the interaction between living, working, and recreational activities within this mixed-use complex.
According to the architects, Houhai Hybrid Campus is intended to be more than just a building project; it will be a multi-generational urban complex where living, working, culture, and nature are intertwined. Construction is already underway, and the project is scheduled for completion by the end of 2026, marking a milestone in contemporary urban architecture in Shenzhen and serving as a model for sustainable development in future megacities.