Prize(s) Honorable Mentions
Lighting Design/Product Company Lichtvision Design GmbH
Lead Designers Karen Ihlau, Sunnia Cheng
Other Designer's names Paolo Cocconi
Architecture Company Zaha Hadid Architecture
Client CR Land
Photo Credits CR Land
Other Credits Executive Lighting Designer: Han Du Associates
Completion Date January 2024
Project Location Chengdu, China
Entry DescriptionThe MixC Central Plaza, at the heart of a significant commercial complex in Chengdu, serves as a vibrant hub of urban life. It blends contemporary architecture with multifunctional spaces, redefining public interaction and architectural aesthetics.
This project focuses on connecting with the community, providing a canvas for events and seasonal happenings. It integrates seamlessly with the landscape, using lighting to accentuate its sweeping forms and create a dynamic, fluid plaza that invites interaction and exploration. Special attention is given to entertainment and excitement, particularly in the Sunken Plazas, where lighting is intense, modern, and playful, enhancing the area’s allure for both daytime activities and nighttime gatherings. This approach not only supports the plaza’s various activities but also bridges the new landscape with existing architectural elements, creating a cohesive urban space.
In its commitment to subtlety and aesthetic integrity, the project aims to conceal lighting fixtures and infrastructure, preserving the natural beauty and architectural flow of the plaza. This ethos is extended through the use of gobo projectors and spotlights mounted on columns. These elements project captivating patterns and colors across the plaza's main axis, enhancing spaces designated for activities without drawing attention to the lighting infrastructure itself.
Sustainability ApproachThanks to the sustainable approach adopted in this project and the use of highly energy-efficient lighting devices, significant energy savings have been achieved. Beyond conserving energy, the focus has been on selecting high-quality and durable equipment, which minimizes the frequency of replacements and consequently reduces waste. This strategy highlights a commitment not only to environmental responsibility but also to providing robust and reliable solutions for urban infrastructure.