OPEN THE GATES!
milanesi | paiusco

【OPEN THE GATES!】Scene design of "three gates and one axis" in Doumen Ancient Town

milanesi | paiusco as Architects

In the past few decades, China has undergone rapid modernization, but some ancient towns that still retain their traditional charm continue to preserve their heritage amid this fast-paced development. However, these towns face challenges such as “hollowing out” and spatial disarray. Balancing preservation with modernization has become a key issue for the village community.

photo_credit milanesi | paiusco
milanesi | paiusco
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This project aims to explore a differentiated development path for Doumen Ancient Town. Unlike the traditional development model of commercializing both sides of the old street, we propose an innovative strategy of "preserving the traditional old street axis while situating renewed commercial services externally," forming a spatial structure of "three gates and one axis." By connecting the three major gates with the street and alley axis, a complete touring route is created. This approach retains the original ecological scenes, prevents hollowing out, improves residents' quality of life, and provides visitors with a truly immersive cultural experience.

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The design language reinterprets the traditional imagery of "corridor-building-corridor" with modern techniques and incorporates the Chinese philosophy of "water management" into the design of bridges and spaces, endowing the ancient town with new vitality and cultural depth.

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