An ecological spine in China
PLAT Studio has transformed a historically preserved waterway in Kunshan, China, into six kilometres of public linear park.
The Miaojing River Corridor’s design objective was to turn the space into an ecological spine for the Kunshan West District while preserving its natural, untouched character.
The Miaojing River Corridor.
“The project aims to drive the green infrastructure development of Kunshan West with the Miaojing River as the central axis of abundant ecological value and recreational programs for surrounding communities,” say PLAT Studio. “Anchoring the framework of Kunshan West, the vision is to designate Miaojing River as an invaluable natural resource for the future of Kunshan.”
Kunshan City, a growing region near Shanghai, is woven together by waterways. 8,000 hectares of the city is covered by water, and its culture is defined by its dependence on these waterways that have supported transportation and economy via canals, rivers and lakes.
The design objective was to turn the space into an ecological spine for the Kunshan West District.
The large green area in the heart of a developed urban setting has been transformed into a socially and culturally vibrant public space with play areas, picnic lawns, an Ecological Education Center, Forest Amphitheatre, Park Cafe and elevated, hidden viewing platforms.
There are gathering opportunities for nearby education and research institutions, and wayfinding and educational signage designed to increase sustainability awareness.
The Miaojing River Corridor’s design aims to preserve the area’s natural, untouched character.
Multi-layered vegetation has been planted to create diverse ecological zones and a healthier forest ecology. Varied grasses have been seeded in the open fields, creating a wet prairie, and some water edges have been re-graded with a gentler slope and added wetland planting. The addition of bioswales forms part of the development’s low-impact stormwater management strategy.
Entries with amenities and resting areas sit at key intersections to connect north and south neighbourhoods. A continuous trail system links Kuilei Lake Area to Forest Park, but is distanced from the central waterway to mitigate impact on existing vegetation.
The large green area has been transformed into a socially and culturally vibrant public space.
Bridges are included in the trail system, while tunnels and underpath are there for areas cut off by the city’s grid. All surfaces are designed to be permeable and elevated where possible.
“The design prioritizes the ecological value of the Miaojing River by employing green infrastructure methods within both the central eco-corridor and at the urban interface of the site,” say PLAT Studio. “Through the preservation of the central eco-corridor, using reforestation to increase site biodiversity, and establishing healthy riparian habitat, the Miaojing River supports humans and local flora and fauna.”
Multi-layered vegetation has been planted to create diverse ecological zones.
“These programs, ecological restorations and accessibility interventions aim to transform the Miaojing River from a hidden gem into blue and green infrastructure that benefits the local community and sustains future growth for the whole of Kunshan West.”
After opening to the public in early 2022, the park has become well-utilised by walkers and cyclists, and also hosts community events.
Kunshan City is a growing region near Shanghai which is woven together by waterways.