A Natural Forest in a High-Density Urban Area
The Orchestra Park is located in the Huaqiao Economic Development Zone of Kunshan, Jiangsu, covering 8,500 square meters. It sits between two high-density residential communities and at the confluence of two rivers, with mature camphor and dawn redwood trees along the riverbanks and largely undisturbed wetlands nearby.
Through discussions with the client, we identified three key needs: a non-professional skateboarding area for the local community, preservation of the existing natural woodland, and the addition of park amenities like restrooms and sanitation facilities.
The main challenge of this project is to integrate these needs with the natural environment to create a functional, modern pocket park for all age groups, addressing the community's lack of recreational spaces. By prioritizing ecosystem preservation and incorporating local cultural elements, we aim to create a livable green space that meets residents' diverse needs while providing a rich natural experience—a green oasis and social hub in the neighborhood.
The Legacy of Jiangnan Silk and Bamboo Music
The Jiangnan Silk and Bamboo music tradition, originating in the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty, features the bamboo flute and erhu, along with the pipa, yangqin, and small sanxian. Recognized for its graceful melodies and light style, it became part of Kunshan's intangible cultural heritage in 2007.
Inspired by this musical heritage, our project design incorporates smooth lines and natural forms that reflect the rhythms and melodies of Silk and Bamboo music. The park’s layout includes curves inspired by these instruments, creating a space that combines recreation with a three-dimensional representation of Jiangnan Silk and Bamboo music, offering residents a harmonious blend of nature and culture.
Preserving Natural Texture and Merging with Silk and Bamboo Forms
We fully respect the existing conditions of the site, aiming to preserve the natural woodland and the undulating terrain to the greatest extent. The overall layout is structured around the symbolic forms of silk and bamboo, with a circular jogging path running through the entire park, connecting Xugongqiao Road and the two adjacent residential communities to the north and south. This path also divides the park into two main areas: a riverside greenbelt and a vibrant recreational zone.
Natural Beauty and Interactive Experience
The design of the riverside greenbelt prioritizes the preservation of existing woodland and vegetation, using a minimal intervention approach. We added a waterside viewing platform along the riverbank and created winding exploration paths under the natural canopy, featuring playful sound-interactive installations to enhance visitors' experiences.
This greenbelt seamlessly integrates natural woodland, planting design, and functional spaces, resulting in a layered park environment with a balanced mix of open and dense areas, distinct seasonal changes, and a clear thematic focus. This design provides residents with a lush space for relaxation and a unique opportunity to connect with nature.
Diverse Activities and Community Interaction
The vibrant recreational area utilizes the site's natural topography to transform the two-dimensional outlines of Jiangnan silk and bamboo instruments into an abstract three-dimensional experience. It features a series of unique interactive facilities, including a skatepark, climbing area, fitness playground, open-air theater, bamboo grove pathways, musical fountain plaza, and a small music classroom. These spaces appeal to residents of all ages, encouraging exploration and engagement with the environment.
A New Hub of Energy for All Ages in the Community
The Orchestra Park, inspired by silk and bamboo, integrates diverse activities while preserving Huaqiao's cultural heritage. This community park offers spaces for viewing, leisure, and exploration, quickly becoming a favorite destination for local residents. With activities for all ages, it serves as both a natural retreat and a vibrant gathering place.
Design Firm: SoBA
Design Lead: Ruo Wang, Haiyin Tang
Design Team:Liao Zhexuan, Li Chuanzhang, Yiqing Wu, Yuan Wang, Xiao Yunxuan (Intern), Zihao Chen (Intern)
Clients: People's Government of Huaqiao Town, Kunshan City
Construction Drawing Design Unit: Jiangsu Aoyang Ecological Garden Co., Ltd.
Construction Company: Kunshan Tiankun Landscape Engineering Co., Ltd.
