Hong Kong – Lead8 is proud to share the opening of MixC Nanjing, a retail-led development located in the city’s central 700-year-old Sanshan Street district.

The 83,800 square metre scheme is developed by China Resources Land and takes the form a low-rise retail precinct that pays respect to the location’s centuries-old context.

“Lead8’s vision was to deliver a retail concept that carefully balances traditional and ‘new era’ for Nanjing. Through our design philosophy, we have reimagined the street texture of the district with the aim of continuing the historic urban fabric for the long-term. Ultimately, our design team has aimed to capture the history of this area while imaging a vibrant future through MixC Nanjing” said Claude Touikan, Co Founder & Executive Director of Lead8.

Preserving local identity

MixC Nanjing is located near the centre of the city and the famous Qinhuai Tourist Area known for its historical landmarks and rich mix of ancient cultural sites. The immediate area surrounding the site features heritage protected buildings and high density living with little commercial development currently existing. Within this setting, the site for MixC Nanjing features an original ‘Yunzhang Gongsuo’ building at its heart, the centrepiece of the retail development.

The overall planning has diverged from the closed box format by creating an open scheme, supporting connectivity and visibility to the traditional cultural building. Internal pedestrian streets have been carved into the site to echo the urban fabric and surround the historic building and its open courtyard.

Interpreting traditional architecture

The architectural design of MixC Nanjing captures the identity of Nanjing through its selection of materials, style, scale and colour. The design language has been informed by studying the city’s building typologies and adapting the core elements.

The triangular site offers opportunities to adapt the façade design strategy along each side to fit comfortably within the district. Facing the main commercial boulevard, the multi-storey façades show an interpretation of traditional Nanjing architecture. Within the development, the facades facing the inner streets feature layered setbacks, an adaptation of old village streets. Facing the redeveloped Chengnan Residential area is a ‘Yanliaofang’ inspired design.

Serving the public

Well-connected, MixC Nanjing is strategically located near multiple train stations in the city. The open format has enhanced street mobility and network accessibility to benefit visitors arriving from different access points. The fourth-floor rooftop serves as a retreat from the bustling streets, offering green outdoor spaces and places for quiet recreation for the general public.

“With its unique positioning, location and concept, we believe this development ushers in a new evolution and flagship for the MixC brand. Balancing modern commercial life with local history, MixC Nanjing shows how urban placemaking can respect, transform and inspire,” shares Touikan.

MixC Nanjing joins Lead8’s award-winning portfolio of projects under the same retail collection, including MixC Shenzhen Bay, MixC Jinan, MixC Ningbo and MixC Wuhan.

PROJECT DETAILS

PROJECT LOCATION: Nanjing, China

DEVELOPER: China Resources Land

ARCHITECT: Lead8

SIZE: 83,800 square metres

PHOTO CREDIT: Lead8