Folding Axis
Aerial view of the folded cultural axis (1/6)
Street view of the vertical cultural complex (2/6)
Folded volumes integrating with the urban context (3/6)
Interior view of the cultural corridor (4/6)
Public space along the folded axis (5/6)
Visual continuity through the cultural landmark (6/6)
Historical research reveals that Zhonghua Gate has long been the core axis of Nanjing's ancient city, embodying its rich cultural heritage. Today, numerous historical and cultural districts surround this axis. However, urban roads have disrupted the spatial continuity of this cultural corridor. My project seeks to extend and strengthen this historical axis, transforming it into a significant urban node.
The design concept is "Folding the Central Axis". Site analysis shows that historical and cultural resources are linearly distributed along this axis. To preserve the original spatial character while addressing the east-west constraints of the site, I propose a folded axis. Imagine a long street lined with diverse cultural buildings, but instead of spreading horizontally, it folds vertically, integrating various functional zones into a cohesive complex. This design also enhances the axis through visual continuity, revitalizing its role as a cultural and spatial landmark.
