In the bustling metropolis of Shanghai lies a hidden gem: the Wenzaobang River. The waterway gracefully weaves through the city, connecting the lakes to the sea through the vibrant urban expanse. Like a living organism, the Wenzao River flows with potential, earning the reputation as a river of growth and vitality. This 46.7 km-long river requires new elements to rejuvenate its existence and infuse it with a distinct identity.

In addition to optimizing urban function, this infrastructure enhancement project is a catalyst to reimagine and reshape a vital city sector. SWA’s vision was to create a cohesive narrative for the river corridor that leverages the ecological potential of its vast green space system, enhances the economic viability of its defining production centers, showcases its current and future culture, and enriches the lives of people who live there.

The process involved taking stock of the corridor’s formative characteristics and embodied resources, working to connect the river as a contiguous whole with a coherent, emboldened storyline to guide the renaissance of the Wusong, Wenzao River corridor.