I


nstead of demolishing or rebuilding the disused industrial site in the Shenzhen district of Nantou, from the beginning of this project the intent from both client and architect was always to preserve the original structure of the former textile factory.


Part of an ambitious, larger


refurbishment plan for what is a historic neighbourhood, the Idea Factory is a collaboration between the Bureau of Public Works of Shenzhen Municipality Nanshan District and the Urban Research Institute of China Vanke (part of Shenzhen Vanke Development), to create 12,600 m² of office space for both the institute, and also for private rent.


Despite this use class, the “distinguishing ADF OCTOBER 2022


features of the project are public in nature,” says architect MVRDV, with a stairway cutting through the six-storey building, leading to a rooftop with a series of “rooms” enclosed by living bamboo walls, offering a variety of amenities and activities.


All this has been wrapped inside a new facade – set back from the edge of the structure, with open loggias that reach around the whole building. The structure has been retained from its former use, exposed in parts to show traces of the building’s history.


Roots


Nantou itself has deep roots as an ancient settlement, but is now described as an


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