Prioritising Connectivity and Propelling Collaboration: Farrells Proposed a Super-Connected Sci-Tech Innovation CBD in The New Digital and AI Era for Hangzhou

In the recent International Competition for the Core Area of Hangzhou Sci-Tech Innovation CBD, Farrells presented an urban design scheme that envisions a super-connected innovation district in response to the disruptive outbreak of emerging technologies and the trend towards virtual communication, aiming to facilitate extensive exchanges among talents. This will be achieved by leveraging the hub’s external transport connection advantages, catalysing urban agglomeration for innovation, and enriching the urban landscape. This scheme, which incorporates Farrells’ expertise in transport-oriented planning and sensitive urban thinking, was recognised as one of the final two winners.

The Hangzhou Sci-Tech Innovation CBD is located in the west of the city’s Sci-Tech Innovation Center, which is a vital part of the Chengxi Sci-Tech Innovation Corridor. It is an essential component of Hangzhou’s plan to optimise its mega-city spatial pattern in the post-Asian Games era. The CBD is focused on developing industrial, urban, and innovation landmarks. The conceptual design covers an area of about 10 sq. km, with an implementation-oriented urban design of approximately 3.7 sq. km and a key area design of around 1.2 sq. km.

With the West Railway Station hub as a gateway and a starting point, Farrells’ scheme connects multiple urban functional centres into a legible mind map. A pedestrian-first, mixed-function TOD urban circle centred on the rail station is developed, forming a visual corridor and a vibrant streetscape linking the transport hub.

An exciting High Street serves as an urban spine, connecting the West Railway Station and is permeable to the central park, drawing people to this innovation hub that boosts new productivity. The High Street links four urban destinations. Each enjoys mixed-use functions and architectural identities.

The diverse urban public spaces interwoven by the High Street, architecture and landscapes are open to all. Together they form a place for interaction and exchange between people and a truly integrated ecosystem thriving at a human scale.

From architecture to landscape, Farrells’ vision woven the tapestry of collaboration into the urban fabric itself. Movement and exchange of talent are integral to the plan. By prioritising multifaceted connectivity at every level, Farrells reimagined an innovation hub for the new digital and AI era and a future city centre for Hangzhou.