The Luxe Lakes CPI Island Commercial Renewal Project in Chengdu is a pioneering urban regeneration effort that blends human habitation, natural landscapes, and commercial spaces. Once home to over 20 villa models, CPI Island has been transformed by Vari Architects, who revitalized the site with a sensitive approach that respects its history while introducing modern elements. The project reconnects the waterfront, reimagines underutilized spaces, and creates a multifunctional area guided by the philosophical concepts of “Average Temperature” and “Subtle Scenery.”
Luxe Lakes CPI Island Renewal Technical Information
- Architects: Vari Architects
- Location: Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- Topics: Urban Design
- Area: 7000 m2 | 75,347 sq. ft.
- Project Year: 2022 – 2024
- Photographs: © Existing Architecture, © Blue Orange Photography
During the design process, two concepts – ‘Average Temperature’ and ‘Subtle Scenery’ defined by Japanese philosopher Washida Kiyokazu, are very inspiring to us. Average Temperature signifies the typical or ordinary state of things in a city, capturing the essence or the norm of the city’s atmosphere, culture, or mood.
– Vari Architects
Luxe Lakes CPI Island Renewal Photographs
Design Philosophy: Average Temperature and Subtle Scenery
The philosophical foundation of the Luxe Lakes CPI Island project rests on two distinct yet intertwined ideas: “Average Temperature” and “Subtle Scenery.” These concepts deeply influenced the architectural approach and spatial experience, weaving together the essence of Chengdu’s urban atmosphere with subtle design interventions.
Average Temperature represents the normative state of a city—the everyday mood, character, and rhythm that define its culture. In the case of Chengdu, a city known for its relaxed and leisurely lifestyle, Vari Architects sought to capture this sense of calm within the project’s design. The architectural language reflects the local ethos of “Chill,” creating spaces that invite rest, relaxation, and human connection. The goal was to design an environment that feels as comfortable as the city itself, allowing people to feel at home within the urban fabric.
Subtle Scenery refers to the often-overlooked elements of our surroundings that enrich our sensory experiences. Vari Architects incorporated this concept into their design through careful attention to site-specific topography, creating terraces and semi-open spaces that frame the natural beauty of Luxe Lakes. The use of layered, split-level spaces amplifies the interaction between architecture and the landscape, encouraging a more profound engagement with the environment.
By intertwining these two ideas, the Luxe Lakes CPI Island project transcends the ordinary. It forms a quiet but powerful dialogue between built structures and nature, between human activity and the natural world.
Architectural Strategy: Harmonizing the Built and Natural Environment
Vari architects employed a thoughtful, layered approach to harmonize the existing villa models with newly constructed buildings. The result is a blend of tradition and modernity that respects the past while embracing the future. The design strategy focused on two main actions: the precise renovation of existing structures and the creation of new, contemporary buildings.
With a combination of 10 renovated buildings and 10 new constructions, vari architects sought to balance heritage with innovation. The redesigned visitor center, pop-up stores, and communal spaces reflect this approach. For instance, the Visitor Center Group, with its blend of the renovated W01 and the newly built W01-1, creates a welcoming entrance that serves as both a social hub and a transition point for visitors.
The project incorporates six core social nodes—small squares designed to foster interaction while blending with the natural landscape. These gathering spaces serve as focal points for social engagement, allowing visitors to experience the project both as individuals and as part of a collective. Through careful placement and landscaping, these nodes invite users to wander, linger, and discover the island’s unique charm.
Four primary design tactics shaped the architectural outcomes:
- Layering terraces and split-level spaces: These features take advantage of the site’s natural topography, enhancing visual depth and creating dynamic spaces that feel both open and intimate.
- Use of semi-open/gray spaces: Cantilevered structures and shaded walkways allow architecture and nature to blend seamlessly, encouraging movement and interaction between indoor and outdoor environments.
- Simplicity in form: Simple yet expressive forms give the architecture a subtle charm, making the buildings approachable and integrated with their surroundings.
- Unified color palette: Shades of gray and white, achieved through the use of materials like concrete, glass, and metal, give the project a calm, cohesive visual identity.
Critical Reflection: A New Urban Spirit for Chengdu
The Luxe Lakes CPI Island project embodies a new chapter in Chengdu’s urban development, one that is rooted in both the city’s cultural heritage and its future aspirations. By thoughtfully integrating the old and the new, vari architects have created a design that speaks to Chengdu’s evolving identity—one that balances relaxation with vibrancy, nature with urbanism.
This project redefines the role of architecture in Chengdu by embracing the local spirit of calm and subtlety. It also serves as a case study in the power of design to foster community, activate underutilized spaces, and enhance the everyday experiences of city dwellers.
Luxe Lakes CPI Island Renewal Plans
Luxe Lakes CPI Island Renewal Image Gallery
About Vari Architects
Vari Architects is an international design firm specializing in urban development and renewal. Its expertise spans architecture, landscape, and interior design. The firm’s core team, educated at Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania, brings extensive experience from globally renowned firms like SOM and Safdie Architects.
Notes & Additional Credits
- Lead architects: Fan Qi, Dingliang Yang
- Project architects: Panao Feng, Chenxin Wang, Handan Tang, Xiaoyu Ding, Mou, Jun Li
- Owner: Chengdu Wide Horizon Real Estate Development Co., Ltd.
- Owner Design Management (Architecture): Chengdu Luhu Cultural Tourism Development Co., Ltd.: Xi Luo, Xinyin Liang, Guoqin Li, Chuanxi Zhu, Chengdu Wide Horizon New City Investment and Development Co., Ltd.: Jiuxu Bai, Kaiwen Wang
- Construction unit: Tutai Construction Group, Dingyu Construction Engineering Co., Ltd
- Construction drawing design: Zhoyu Design Group Co., Ltd.； Sichuan Zhonghengzhuke Survey and Design Co., Ltd.
- Landscape Design: Yudao Landscape
- Lighting Design: BPI Lighting Consultant Design Company
- Curtain wall deepening design: Zhoyu Design Group Co., Ltd.
- Photography: Existing Architecture, Blue Orange Photography
- Copywriting: Fan Qi, Dingliang Yang, Chenxin Wang
