Hyperlane - connecting in every direction

ASPECT Studios have completed the first phase of their HyperLane project in Chengdu, China.

The 2.4-kilometre, multilevel linear sky-park, uses a layered circular form to make a valuable contribution to the local environment.

The HyperLane is a youth culture and lifestyle destination at the heart of the city’s music and arts university district. Image credit - Aspect Studios.

Situated at the heart of the Sichuan Conservatory of Music University, the 1,300 square-metre site was previously a series of walled spaces used for unplanned parking, disconnecting the student accommodation from the university campus.

Alleyways that allowed access became full of life and urban art, thus, “demonstrating the artistic energy that laid under the surface of the community.”

The designers say HyperLane is a youth culture and lifestyle destination. Image credit - Aspect Studios.

ASPECT Studios’ design connects in every direction, with the barrier-free skypark and pedestrian network linking the university to the new Chengdu train station.

While it was designed before the COVID-19 pandemic, it works well with current social distancing guidelines.

HyperLane is defined by its use of the Phoebe Zhennan tree which is registered on the endangered species list due to habitat loss. Image credit - Aspect Studios.

The Urban Promenade along the street edge features a network of walkways, planters, raingardens and multi-directional social seating, with an interactive water carpet providing textural contrast.

Submerged lighting displays allow for a clarity of line that illuminates the water’s edge. A layer of trees provide a fringe to the main road.

Hyperlane sits at the centre of the Sichuan Conservatory of Music University. Image credit - Aspect Studios.

The 24-hour Social Terrace offers a safe and well-lit all-hours space. A sculptural terrace deck is oriented so people can gather in the shade of trees, either to watch performances or simply socialise, and the lighting and edge display of perforated steel add to the vibrant nighttime atmosphere.

Social seating pods are nestled within the planting, which is mostly local species, selected to encourage birds, insects and wildlife to the area. A Performance Gallery allows for exhibitions, gatherings, impromptu performances and open-air theatre.

The 1,300 square-metre site was previously a series of walled spaces used for unplanned parking. Image credit - Aspect Studios.

HyperLane is defined by its use of the Phoebe Zhennan tree. Endemic to Chengdu, it is registered on the endangered species list due to habitat loss. The Phoebe Zhennan is ideal for this project because its evergreen canopy limits leaf litter near the water carpets, and its ability to grow up to 30 metres offers dense shade at ground level. HyperLane provided a perfect opportunity to introduce an endangered species en masse to an urban environment.

“The HyperLane is a youth culture and lifestyle destination at the heart of the city’s music and arts university district,” say the designers. “It establishes a vibrant and fun orientated linear space, linking the local transportation hub with the university community and campus in Chengdu.”

The 2.4-kilometre, multilevel linear sky-park, uses a layered circular form to make a valuable contribution to the local environment.