Urbanus, a Chinese architectural firm, recently unveiled the vibrant Hakka Academy Longgang Twin Stars in Shenzhen, designed to stand out against the dull urban backdrop.
Nestled near the Qixing Shiju Historic Residence—a collection of traditional Hakka walled houses—the academy draws inspiration from the rich cultural heritage of the Hakka community in southern China.
This innovative educational complex includes two institutions: Weilong School, which caters to both primary and secondary students, and the Weiwu School, designated for younger learners. Both schools are situated on a plot that also encompasses residential areas, industrial zones, and what Urbanus refers to as an "urban village."
The design reflects the mixed-use nature of its environment, featuring varying levels, walkways, and sports facilities. Urbanus notes that the irregular boundaries of the site foster a unique interaction with the nearby neighborhoods. "By incorporating winding paths and strategically positioning various functions, the layout evolves into a dynamic, three-dimensional experience," they explained.
The Weilong School, a five-story structure adjacent to a major roadway, takes cues from the horizontal forms of traditional Hakka homes. Its architecture showcases a blend of geometric designs and intricate façades adorned with playful cutouts. According to Urbanus, "The robust boundary of the school not only shields against external noise but also features colorful openings that hint at the lively activities inside, striking a perfect balance between privacy and engagement with the outside world."
Occupying a generous 73,500 square meters, Weilong School is thoughtfully organized into clusters resembling traditional walled homes arranged around a central courtyard. Within this space, Urbanus has integrated circular ramps and passageways for younger children, while older students can enjoy vibrant sports courts or explore lush gardens that envelop the facility.
In contrast, the smaller Weiwu School, with five stories and covering 25,800 square meters, is designed to optimize limited land space amidst towering high-rises. Like its counterpart, it features a lively central court, which serves not only as a venue for sports but also as a gathering place for community events, reinforcing connections with local residents.
Urbanus has strategically used bright colors throughout the campus to differentiate grade levels and functional areas, aiding orientation within the diverse spaces. They assert that these vivid hues serve as a counterpoint to the monotonous urban environment fostered by rapid development in the region.
The firm envisions the campus as a catalyst for cultivating community culture, stating, "By intertwining and showcasing the valuable cultural elements of the surrounding area, we aim to mend the existing urban fabric, fostering a more appealing urban environment and lifestyle."
Urbanus has a history of colorful and impactful projects, such as adding vibrant rooftop structures to a block in Shenzhen and transforming a former brewery into a cultural hub.
Photography credit goes to TAL.
Project credits:
- Architect: Urbanus
- Principal architects: Meng Yan, Wen Ting
- Project manager, project architect: Weng Hua
- Team members: Zhang Chaoxian, Zhang Yingyuan, Huang Jiahong, Liao Guotong (architecture), Zhang Xuejuan, Li Guanda, Wang Tingxin, Gao Yufeng (landscape), He Jiamin, Deng Tingfang (interior), Zhang Hui, Li Peiying, Guo Anran, Hu Xiaomai, Huang Xianwen, Zhang Yipei, Tan Yongxian (internship), Gong Yidan, Coming Home Enterprises, and Xiangtian Chuangwen (community building)
- Technical director: Yao Xiaowei
- Structural consultant: H&J International Co Ltd.
- Construction Document (Structure/MEP): Shenzhen TIANHUA Architectural Design Co Ltd
- Landscape development: ShenZhen Paier Landscape Planning And Design Consulting Co Ltd
- Interior development: JNJW Architectural Design
- Graphic design: SURE Design
- Contractor: China Construction Fourth Engineering Division Corp Ltd.
- Construction agency: Shenzhen Vanke City Construction Management Co Ltd.
