layered brick facade wraps art gallery, part of citang street regeneration project in chengdu

CITANG STREET REGENERATION Blends Heritage with Green Design

In the heart of Chengdu, Citang Street has undergone a regeneration project led by China Southwest Architectural Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd. (CSWADI), re-envisioning the historically significant neighborhood as a dynamic, layered public space that harmonizes Chengdu’s cultural heritage with the green expanse of People’s Park. Originally a central site in Chengdu’s modern cultural movement, Citang Street continues to reflect the architectural styles of western Sichuan, featuring buildings with centuries-old Republic of China-era design elements and traditional local craftsmanship.

The regeneration approach emphasizes organic renewal, integrating the neighborhood’s historic structures with adaptable, green urban spaces that extend through new three-dimensional ‘sky streets.’ The design creates strong connections between the street and People’s Park by widening footpaths and transforming Citang Street into a one-way corridor to increase pedestrian accessibility. By demolishing the park’s boundary walls, the park’s greenery extends into Citang Street, blurring the line between the street and the natural landscape.

all images by 404NF STUDIO

Expanded pedestrian green corridors enhance accessibility

The historic layout of Citang Street’s streets and alleys, based on Qing Dynasty planning, is retained, while the removal of non-original structures restores historical hutongs and pedestrian pathways. A modular timber structure inspired by ‘curium porcelain and kintsugi’ aesthetics connects old and new building components, drawing attention to the area’s heritage. The new framework enables contemporary functionality, supporting brand-new uses while preserving the district’s historical character.

The three-dimensional design concept by CSWADI also utilizes vertical space, with layered green roofs, terraces, and a rooftop walkway that allows views over the surrounding heritage area. This multi-level greening strategy introduces a sense of spatial continuity, incorporating courtyards, walkways, and elevated green corridors as part of a cohesive, adaptable urban landscape.

CSWADI leads the regeneration of Citang Street, transforming it into a layered public space in Chengdu

CSWADI merges sustainable renewal and historical preservation

At the northwest corner, a newly designed art gallery incorporates traditional Chengdu elements, taking cues from the former Half-Side Bridge that once stood nearby. The gallery’s exterior merges ceramic panels and hollow tiles, replicating the texture of traditional blue brick while creating a visual contrast between old and new. A layered brick design on the facade allows light to filter through, casting shadows that mimic the nearby sycamore trees.

The Citang Street Regeneration project marks a blend of sustainable renewal and historical preservation, aiming to present Chengdu’s unique urban memory and Tianfu culture in a modernized format. With ongoing phases planned, Citang Street is set to continue its transformation, preserving its cultural legacy while accommodating contemporary urban life.

a blend of history and innovation, Citang Street project features three-dimensional green pathways

the art gallery at Citang Street’s northwest corner pays homage to Chengdu’s Half-Side Bridge

shadows cast by layered bricks replicate sycamore trees, blending the gallery with its natural surroundings

ceramic panels and hollow tiles on the gallery exterior mimic traditional blue brick

historic Qing Dynasty street layouts are preserved, restoring Chengdu’s pedestrian pathways

Citang Street continues to adapt, maintaining its cultural legacy while embracing modern urban life

courtyards, walkways, and elevated green corridors provide fluidity throughout Citang Street’s urban landscape

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project info:

name: Citang Street Regeneration

architect: China Southwest Architectural Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd. (CSWADI)

location: Qingyang District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China

lead architect: Zheng Yong

deputy lead architect: Chen Jiale

design team: Zhang Zongteng, Liu Yu, Xu Wenqi, Wang Yixuan, Li Botao, Li Yi, Li Yue, Zheng Hancong

structural engineers: Yi Dan, Wang Heng, Tang Min

water supply and drainage engineers: Xiao Sida, Wen Zhiwei

HVAC engineers: Gong Bo, Bai Yinghe

electrical engineers: Li Guohui, Zhu Ke

building intelligence engineer: Zhang Jing

curtain wall facade engineers: Yin Bingli, Cai Honglin, Cheng Chao, Zhou Chunxiao, Fan Haibo

architectural technology: Luo Jing, Chen Jun

landscape architect: Ouyang Shuang (Chengdu Jizhun Fangzhong Architectural Design Co., Ltd.

client: Chengdu Xingguanghua Urban Construction Co., Ltd.

area: 16,208.63 sqm

building area: 34,375.39 sqm 

photography: 404NF STUDIO

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom