line+ merges meishajian urban viewing platform with the terrain
The Meishajian Viewing Platform, located on Shenzhen’s third-highest peak at 753 meters, is designed as a city landmark that integrates with the natural terrain. Developed by line+ studio, the structure follows a minimal-intervention strategy, responding to the mountain’s conditions by balancing two distinct approaches, lightness in mist-covered slopes and solidity at the summit’s exposed terrain.
Rather than imposing a dominant structure, the design prioritizes continuity with the landscape. The viewing platform extends the hiking experience, providing a transitional space that merges with the terrain. Instead of vertical markers, the design follows the mountain’s contours, using cast-in-place concrete formations that blend with natural rock formations. These ‘artificial boulders’ form sheltered resting areas while maintaining open sightlines. The platform follows the principle of ‘rugged contextuality,’ merging Brutalist material integrity with site-specific adaptation. The structure consists of reinforced concrete, UHPC high-performance concrete with a stone texture, and slab-column shear walls. Gently sloping surfaces reduce wind resistance, while the massing ensures stability without excessive reinforcement.
all images by line+
like an artificial boulder, the platform adapts to the landscape
The project required precise logistical planning due to its high-altitude location, confined work surface, and challenging transport conditions. Construction strategies focused on modularity, with the structure divided into 12 prefabricated segments, each carefully dimensioned for manual transport. Initial trials used drones to lift molds and small equipment before a cableway system was introduced, increasing transport efficiency and allowing for the daily movement of 30 cubic meters of material. Following a minimal-impact approach, all temporary facilities were removed after construction, leaving only essential anchor points as a subtle trace of the process. A resident architect collaborated with line+ studio’s design team and remained on-site to oversee construction accuracy, ensuring the design vision was realized.
The viewing platform is not a standalone pavilion but an extension of the mountain path. A cantilevered platform rises into the sky, while a recessed stone shelter below offers a space for rest. Over time, natural elements such as moss and weathering will further integrate the structure into its environment. The result is an intervention that dissolves into the summit, maintaining an uninterrupted relationship between architecture, terrain, and the experience of ascent.
the Meishajian Viewing Platform stands at 753 meters, integrating with the mountain’s natural terrain
designed by line+, the structure follows a minimal-intervention approach, adapting to the landscape’s conditions
instead of imposing a dominant form, the design extends the hiking experience, merging with the terrain
the platform balances two design principles: lightness in mist-covered slopes and solidity at the summit’s peak
a cantilevered platform rises into the sky, offering unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape
the viewing platform extends the hiking trail, integrating movement into its architectural form
the intervention dissolves into the summit, maintaining harmony between architecture and terrain
beneath the main platform, a recessed stone shelter provides a quiet resting space for hikers
cast-in-place concrete formations blend with natural rock, creating a connection between built and natural elements
the project follows ‘rugged contextuality,’ combining Brutalist materiality with site-specific adaptation
more than a landmark, the Meishajian Viewing Platform is a continuation of the mountain’s journey
gently sloping surfaces reduce wind resistance, making the structure both stable and unobtrusive
‘artificial rock’ concept model for Shenzhen Meishajian Urban Viewing Platform by line+
project info:
name: Shenzhen Meishajian Urban Viewing Platform
architect: line+ studio | @lineplus_studio
location: Shenzhen, Guangdong
building area: 300 sqm
lead designer: Meng Fanhao
project architect: He Yaliang
design team: Xing Shu, Han Yuyan, Xu Hao, Xu Yifan, Li Renjie
on-site architect: Xing Shu
client: Yantian District People’s Government of Shenzhen
structural consultants: AND Office / Zhang Zhun, Hu Xiaojie
MEP consultant: Shanghai Zhuzhi Architectural Design Consulting Co., Ltd.
lighting consultant: Tongji Architectural Design (Group) Co., Ltd. (TJAD)
architectural lighting institute general contractor: Shenzhen Zhonghe Construction Engineering Co., Ltd.
UHPC contractor: Zhejiang Jianxin Decoration Co., Ltd.
signage design: SURE Design
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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom
