Aedas designs a dragon-inspired cultural-tourism complex in Zhuhai, China | Aedas

Aedas-design Zhuhai Hengqin Headquarters Complex (Phase II) sits in a prime area on the Hengqin Island in Zhuhai, in close proximity to the Lotus Bridge that links to Cotai, Macau. Overlooking some of the largest casino resorts across the river, the development is set to be an integrated cultural tourism-oriented complex with two high-rise Grade-A office towers and a series of retail, banquet, entertainment and leisure venues.

In ancient Chinese myths, the totem of two dragons chasing for a pearl symbolises good fortune and happiness. Design of the two towers and the small banquet building in between took reference from this totem. The towers portray a sense of strength and power with a façade that shimmers under the sun; while the banquet building looks like an exquisite pearl.

The podium design, on the other hand, echos the nearby Lotus Bridge. It resembles a blooming lotus flower with ‘lotus leaves’ wrapping around the shopping centre and lining up the retail streets. The master plan is laid out to drive traffic from various retail, leisure and green nodes to the central sunken plaza. And in response to the rainy weather in Zhuhai, the upper levels will serve as shelters for people on the lower levels to create a pleasant environment in both sunny and rainy days.

Near this headquarters development is the MCC Port Complex, also designed by Aedas for the same client. With a design inspired by the swimming Arowana, it is a mixed-use development that offers retail, office and residential programmes.

Project: Zhuhai Hengqin Headquarters Complex (Phase II)
Location: Zhuhai, China
Design and Project Architect: Aedas
Gross Floor Area: 486,257 sq m
Directors: Andy Wen and Keith Griffiths