architecture firms mandaworks, gossamer & arcadis were commissioned, as part of an international competition, organized by the shenzhen bureau of urban planning & natural resources, to create a new resilient masterplan for one of the last remaining natural coastlines in shenzhen, china. at the doorstep to one of china’s largest cities, the new xichong coastal reserve project enhances the natural seaside getaway experience, protects local ecosystems and communities, whilst supporting a new ecological tourism industry for a burgeoning chinese middle class.

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all images courtesy of mandaworks, gossamer & arcadis

 

 

since 2018, when typhoon manghut devastated southern china, causing severe damage, a swathe of reconstruction projects have been underway. meanwhile, despite being in a typhoon zone, popular beach destinations have approved new high-density mega-developments along their beachfronts. however, the xichong coastal reserve by mandaworks, gossamer & arcadis is markedly different. the masterplan prioritizes typhoon resistance, ecological restoration, and preservation of local villages. in this way, the design reflects the broader shift within china towards sensitive development, environmental protection, and cultural preservation.

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the project leads with a progressive landscape approach integrating transport, urban design, architecture, engineering, and tourism strategies, prioritizing environmentally-driven solutions to a wide range of challenges. the robust framework allows for a rational development that enhances the area’s rich biodiversity, environment, and extreme weather resiliency. the reserve design restores natural water flows by repairing eroded river corridors, wetlands, and coastal mangrove habitats. this then provides a suite of tourist experiences from boardwalks, kayaking routes, bird hides, and floating markets, while new flood-proof residences respond to the natural river system. 

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upgrades have been applied to the existing farmland, allowing for organic agriculture, markets, and teahouses, protected by surrounding mountains, to create opportunities for new lookouts, bicycle trails, hiking shelters and cliff walks. defending with landscape the project’s coastal defense strategy introduces flood and typhoon mitigation through reinstating dune systems previously destroyed by typhoons and over-development. cafes, restaurants, and changing rooms are built within the re-constructed dune-scapes, connecting with sheltered beach walks, camping areas, and natural playgrounds. a new dike, hybridizing modern engineering and natural coastal landscapes, present unique typologies to interact with whilst protecting against flood and high seas.

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the majority of urban expansion is focused around four existing villages that are then aligned to the surrounding conditions. xigong town; located in a quiet and serene valley is expanded along a restored stream running through the centre of town. shagang town; grows around new terraced orchards where local produce is grown and sold at the town markets. hesou town; the largest of the villages, is upgraded and a central civic street is designed to bring people from the mountains all the way to the beach via a new cable car network and trails. finally, xinwu town; located to the east, is developed around a new health and wellness retreat that overlooks the coastline. all of the architectural interventions respond to the forests, mountains, farmlands and rivers bringing people closer to a new, rejuvenated xichong.

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project info:

 

 

name: xichong coastal reserve
architecture office: mandaworks, gossamer, arcadis

 

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edited by: myrto katsikopoulou | designboom