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urban planning and design
Wuhan Superblock
Project Type
Academic
(Group)
Instructor
HUANG He & YANG Tao
Completed Period
Spring 2023
Tools
Sketchup, Lumion, AutoCAD,
Photoshop, Illustrator
Location
Wuhan, China
Area
105 hectares
Site Location
Hubei Pronvince
Wuhan City
Jiangan District
Site Location
Situated along the Yangtze River, Wuhan Superblock boasts a distinctive location enriched by long history. This 105-hectare site consists of a diverse tapestry of built and natural environments, including a former German concession, a wetland, and modern highrises. Currently, the area grapples with pronounced decay and congestion. Historical buildings, which hold architectural values, are not maintained to provide glimpses of heritage. Moreover, years of car-centric development engendered a polluted environment, leaving insufficient space for pedestrians and bikers. Lastly, the 4.5-meter high flood wall on Yanjiang Avenue forms a significant physical barrier, disconnecting historical spaces from the natural landscape.
This project strives to revitalize the site by employing a people-centered design inspired by Barcelona’s Superblock model, prioritizing pedestrian-friendly spaces. The Wuhan city government envisions transforming the area into a vibrant art district, blending history, modernity, and ecology. With its rich architectural and historical assets, this vision is achievable through thoughtful planning and design.
**The visuals and graphics in this project were created by me, showcasing my contributions to the site’s redesign and development strategy. My collaborator focused on transportation planning; none of their work is included in this portfolio.
Current Conditions
Disconnection between the Old Town and the Yangtze River caused by embankments.
Car-centric development which exacerbated pollution and fostered an unwalkable environment.
Lack of programs and creative utilizations of public space.
Urban decay and poor maintenance of historical buildings.
Proposed Plan
Current Model
Superblock Model
Current Model
Superblock Model
Urban Mobility
Wuhan Superblock prioritizes public spaces, reclaiming streets from vehicular traffic to create pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly areas. By reducing car dominance, the city enhances the overall quality of life while promoting an active, healthier lifestyle for residents.
A key element of this urban revitalization strategy is the integration of diverse programs. The planning framework incorporates public parks, recreational areas, cultural spaces, and commercial zones, fostering a dynamic environment that caters to the needs of diverse communities. This thoughtful mix of functions cultivates a strong sense of place, encourages social interactions, and strengthens the fabric of an inclusive urban community.
The redevelopment plan also emphasizes sustainability. By increasing green spaces, promoting communal transportation options, and repurposing existing buildings for new uses, it aligns with environmentally responsible practices while revitalizing the urban landscape.
Development Strategies
3 Belts
Jiangtan Park Redesign
5 Paths
Sponge City
Flood Wall Program
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