Completed in 2022 by XISUI Design, the Red Dunes Playtopia serves as a mesmerizing amalgamation of design and nature. The project emerges as a captivating landscape devoted to children’s activities, ingeniously interweaving functional components with the undulating contours of the natural terrain.
Red Dunes Playtopia Technical Information
- Architects: XISUI Design
- Location: Guangdong New Town, Guangzhou Province, China
- Budget: $300K
- Topics: Playgrounds
- Completion Year: 2022
- Photographs: © Hu Yihao, XISUI Design
Through mechanical calculations and modeling analysis, material savings have been achieved in comparison to conventional beam-column structures, with approximately two-thirds reduction in raw material usage for the same span
– XISUI Design Architects
Red Dunes Playtopia Photographs
Text by the Architects
Utilizing advanced design techniques such as parameterized design, drainage optimization simulation, and structural form-finding algorithms, the Red Dunes project harmoniously blends the outdoor space with its natural surroundings. It aims to inspire both children and adults to immerse themselves in the joy of outdoor play and exploration.
Parametric Topography Design
Through digital generation, the topography has been tailored to accommodate the complexity and slope of the terrain, providing distinct zones for different age groups. Children’s activity facilities seamlessly merge with the natural environment, forming a cohesive space.
Digital Calculation of Natural Drainage
Meticulous calculations and simulations have ensured a comprehensive natural drainage system, effectively managing rainwater flow despite the undulating terrain. This innovative approach eliminates the need for surface drainage outlets, allowing rainwater to naturally disperse into green spaces and designated peak drainage outlets.
Concrete Shell Structure
The project presents a unique challenge in terms of form and structure with its undulated concrete shell structure. It emulates the cave-like topography of the natural landscape, providing climbing spaces above and sheltered areas below. Inspired by the load transfer mechanism of natural arches, the design enables large spans and ultra-thin structural thicknesses. Integrating with the landscape, enhances the visual cohesion of the artificial structure, reduces column presence, and optimizes spatial efficiency.
Practicing Material Efficiency and Sustainable Ideas
Concrete, with its advantages in terms of formability, cost-effectiveness, and practicality, has become a key direction in green architecture and the development of future organic structures. The concrete shell structure in this project combines large spans and ultra-thin structural thicknesses. Through mechanical calculations and modeling analysis, material savings have been achieved in comparison to conventional beam-column structures, with an approximately a two-thirds reduction in raw material usage for the same span.
The undulating red dunes provide a space for children to run, jump, and roll while integrating a variety of functional children’s activity installations into the terrain. With its innovative design techniques and advanced technologies, such as parameterized topography design, digital calculation of natural drainage, and the use of a unique concrete shell structure, the project harmoniously blends functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability. It aims to inspire users of all ages to embrace outdoor play and exploration while fostering a strong connection with the surrounding natural elements.
Red Dunes Playtopia Image Gallery
About XISUI Design
Established in 2018, Shanghai’s XISUI Design has carved a niche for itself with its emphasis on blending user experience with cultural integration, particularly in areas like children’s playgrounds, technology landscapes, and installation art. By employing state-of-the-art digital design and construction methodologies, XISUI Design is pioneering digital transformation in the field, continuously researching new materials and techniques. Their strategic collaborations with construction and processing factories further push the boundaries of design possibilities.
Notes & Additional Credits
- Client: Guangdong Poly Urban Development Co., Ltd.
- Architects/designers: Hu Yihao
- Project Manager: Peng Yang
- Design team: XISUI Design
- Structural Consultant: Shanghai Chenggang Structural Design Associates & Spiring Architectural Design
