Industrial Buildings in an Urban Context

This book showcases nearly 40 cases of redevelopment and industrial design by the German architectural firm gmp Architects von Gerkan,Marg and Partners in Shanghai, Beijing, Tianjin, Shenzhen (mainland China), and some German cities. These designs are for commercial and industrial buildings, cultural and convention centers, exhibition halls, and data centers. They apply gmp's design concept to industrial buildings within the context of the metropolis, characterized by conciseness, diversity, unity, uniqueness, and orderliness. This book provides examples of and references to urban industrial building areas and industrial architecture design and can be used as a reference by teachers and students of urban planning studies, architectural history, architectural heritage conservation, and architectural design.

Format: Hardback
Length: 496 pages
Publication date: 08 November 2022
Publisher: Tongji University Press

Industrial buildings with long histories and spatial uniqueness play a significant role in urban life, but their integration into the urban fabric can be challenging. Newly built industrial plots with large-scale industrial and commercial buildings present an opportunity to create a seamless connection between these structures and the surrounding urban environment. In this book, gmp Architects von Gerkan, Marg and Partners showcase nearly 40 cases of redevelopment and industrial design in Shanghai, Beijing, Tianjin, Shenzhen (mainland China), and some German cities. These designs encompass a wide range of commercial and industrial buildings, cultural and convention centers, exhibition halls, and data centers.

The gmp Architects' design concept is characterized by conciseness, diversity, unity, uniqueness, and orderliness. It seeks to integrate industrial buildings into the metropolis while preserving their distinct character and spatial qualities. The book provides examples of urban industrial building areas and industrial architecture design, offering valuable insights for teachers and students of urban planning studies, architectural history, architectural heritage conservation, and architectural design.

One of the key challenges in integrating industrial buildings into urban life is finding a balance between preserving their historical significance and adapting them to modern needs. gmp Architects achieves this by incorporating innovative design solutions that respect the heritage of the buildings while incorporating modern functionality and sustainability. For instance, in the redevelopment of the former Shanghai Tobacco Factory, the architects preserved the iconic chimney and incorporated it into a contemporary office building.

Another approach is to create a sense of continuity between industrial buildings and the surrounding urban fabric. gmp Architects achieves this by designing buildings that respond to the scale and character of the surrounding buildings and by incorporating green spaces and public amenities. For example, in the redevelopment of the former Tianjin Port Area, the architects created a park that connects the industrial buildings and provides a public space for residents and workers.

In addition to design considerations, the integration of industrial buildings into urban planning and design requires a collaborative approach between developers, architects, and city officials. gmp Architects has worked closely with these stakeholders to ensure that their designs are aligned with urban planning goals and that they contribute to the overall development of the city.

The book also highlights the importance of sustainable design in industrial buildings. gmp Architects incorporates green technologies and sustainable practices into their designs to reduce energy consumption, minimize waste, and promote biodiversity. For example, in the redevelopment of the former Shenzhen Airport, the architects designed a building that incorporates a green roof and solar panels to reduce energy consumption and promote sustainable practices.

In conclusion, this book provides valuable insights into the integration of industrial buildings into urban life. gmp Architects' design concept emphasizes conciseness, diversity, unity, uniqueness, and orderliness, while incorporating innovative design solutions and sustainable practices. The cases showcased in the book demonstrate the potential for industrial buildings to contribute to the urban fabric while preserving their historical significance and spatial qualities. By working collaboratively with developers, architects, and city officials, industrial buildings can be successfully integrated into urban planning and design, creating vibrant and sustainable communities.

Weight: 2230g
Dimension: 270 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9787560871141