In the heart of Shaoxing, a city steeped in historical and cultural significance, the Cai Yuanpei Square and Jiemin Library project seamlessly integrate modernity and tradition. The Architectural Design & Research Institute of Zhejiang University (UAD) undertook the challenge of revitalizing this historical block, incorporating the essence of Shaoxing’s rich heritage while infusing contemporary architectural elements. This project, which includes the renovation of Jiemin Cinema, the construction of Jiemin Library, and the enhancement of Cai Yuanpei Square, not only preserves the area’s cultural legacy but also breathes new life into its urban fabric.
Cai Yuanpei Square and Jiemin Library Technical Information
- Architects1-19: UAD | Architectural Design and Research Institute of Zhejiang University
- Location: Jiefang North Road, Yuecheng District, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, China
- Building Area: 14,089 m2
- Project Year: 2019 – 2023
- Photographs: © Zhao Qiang
The design concept of this project, ‘interpreting the tradition to reconstruct the present’, helps to retain a real past when establishing an authentic present integrated with different meanings.
– UAD Architects
Cai Yuanpei Square and Jiemin Library Photographs
Historical Context and Urban Fabric
Located in Wang Xizhi’s Native Place, a historical and cultural block in Shaoxing, the project site is a confluence of past and present. The area’s architectural features and urban fabric have evolved over time, creating a unique blend of historical continuity and modern interventions. The UAD team approached the renovation with a dialectical method, analyzing key sites such as Jiemin Cinema, Julong Lane, Shaoxing Fifth Hospital, Cai Yuanpei Square, and the Cai Yuanpei Former Residence. This analysis allowed them to create a cohesive design that honors the historical significance of each site while integrating them into a unified, contemporary urban space.
The project’s core objective was to replace the former structures with new, multifunctional urban public cultural venues. The new Cai Yuanpei Square, Jiemin Theatre, and Jiemin Library are designed to perpetuate Shaoxing’s cultural canon and embody Cai Yuanpei’s philosophy of aesthetic education. The UAD’s design ensures that the renewed square remains a memorial and public gathering place, retaining its iconic ‘L’ shape layout and wooden promenade structure while enhancing openness and accessibility.
Architectural Design and Cultural Integration
The architectural design of Jiemin Library is a harmonious blend of traditional and modern elements. The removal of the former Shaoxing Fifth Hospital allowed for the library’s construction, which is strategically positioned to interact harmoniously with the surrounding historical structures. The library’s design considers its relationship with the Cai Yuanpei Former Residence, ensuring a seamless integration into the historical context. The lanes paved with weather-beaten stone slabs, and the use of dark red UHPC panels for the library’s facade create a visual dialogue between the old and the new, highlighting the continuation of the ancient city’s urban fabric.
Jiemin Theatre, formerly Jiemin Cinema, retains its original architectural space and structural framework while undergoing significant interior and exterior upgrades. The renovation preserves the theatre’s historical functions of stage performance and film projection, allowing it to continue serving as a cultural hub for the community. The design concept of ‘interpreting the tradition to reconstruct the present’ is evident in the theatre’s facades and interior spaces, which reflect the architectural heritage of the early 1950s while accommodating modern functionalities.
Functional and Aesthetic Considerations
The functional design of Jiemin Library includes thoughtful height control and floor-to-floor height restrictions to accommodate various uses. The underground exhibition space dedicated to Cai Yuanpei’s life, the two-story library with the Yuanpei Lecture Hall, and the rooftop platform for sightseeing and leisure are meticulously planned to enhance the user experience. The library’s western side, separated from Jiemin Theatre by Julong Lane, and its eastern side, facing a water courtyard and the former residence, create a dynamic interaction between different architectural elements.
The water courtyard serves as a reflective space, mirroring the juxtaposition of traditional gable roofs and contemporary library structures. This design choice symbolizes the dialogue between history and modernity, emphasizing the project’s commitment to preserving the past while embracing the present. The platform on the south side of the courtyard offers a panoramic view of Jishan Mountain and Wenbi Pagoda, further connecting the library to its historical and natural surroundings.
In conclusion, the Cai Yuanpei Square and Jiemin Library project by the Architectural Design & Research Institute of Zhejiang University exemplifies a masterful blend of tradition and modernity. The thoughtful integration of historical elements with contemporary design principles creates a vibrant urban space that honors Shaoxing’s rich cultural heritage while providing new public cultural venues for the community. This project revitalizes a historical block and sets a precedent for future architectural endeavors in preserving and enhancing the urban fabric of ancient cities.
Cai Yuanpei Square and Jiemin Library Plans
Cai Yuanpei Square and Jiemin Library Image Gallery
About UAD
Founded in 1953, The Architectural Design & Research Institute of Zhejiang University Co., Ltd. (UAD) is one of the earliest Class-A design institutes established among China’s key universities. UAD has a distinguished history of creating innovative, high-end projects guided by the principles of “Harmonious Environment, Global Vision, and Balance Architecture.” With a focus on integrating teaching, research, and creation, UAD has garnered over 1500 awards, including national, ministerial, provincial, and international accolades. Committed to “Truth-seeking & Innovation” and “Striving for Excellence & Advocating Perfection,” UAD continues to deliver premium design and services across various sectors.
Notes & Additional Credits
- Lead Architect: Hu Huifeng
- Architecture: Zhang Chenfan, Zhu Jinyun, Wang Yuxuan
- Structure: Zheng Xiaoqing, Wu Xiawen, Lyu Junfeng, Chen Xu, Zhang Jie, Ding Ziwen
- Drainage: Yi Jiasong , Cai Ang
- HVAC: Pan Dahong, Li Yongmei
- Electrical: Zhang Wei, Qian Kun
- Intellectualization: Li Xiangqun, Yang Guozhong, Yuan Xiaonan
- Lighting: Wang Xiaodong, Zhao Yanqiu, Xing Jiayi, Fu Dongming, Feng Baile, Wu Xuhui
- Decoration: Fang Yin, Kong Xiang, Ma Juan
- Curtain Wall: Shi Jiongjiong, Wang Jianzhong, Xuan Zhaokang, Su Zeqi
- Landscape: Wu Weiling, Wang Jietao, Zhang Chi, Wu Di, Yao Haiyan, Zhang Yuchen, Xu Feitong, Gu Jingxian
- Geotechnical: Chen Yun, Yang Qinfeng, Han Jiaming
- Stage: Chi Wangang, Chen Yong, Chi Jiabei
- Economy: Chu Qianbo, Zhang Ying, Sun Wentong, Zhang Guodan
- BIM Design: Ren Wei, Shu Yu
- EPC: Fang Chaojun, Zhou Huiyang, Wu Jianquan, Bei Sijia
- Exhibition Design: Shanghai Art-Designing Co., Ltd.
- Client: Shaoxing Cultural Tourism Group
- Constructor: Zhejiang Qinye Construction Engineering Group
