China Construction Science and Technology: Winner of International Residential Architecture Awards 2024. The project site was significantly affected by the catastrophic rainstorm and flood disaster that occurred on June 16, 2024. In response to the flood control and drought relief directives from the Communist Party of China (CPC), the construction of the resettlement community is a project commissioned by the CPC Guangdong Provincial Committee for Shenzhen Municipality. This initiative serves as a key demonstration project within Shenzhen’s targeted assistance program for Songyuan Town, located in the Meixian District of Meizhou City. It aligns with the “Hundred, Thousand, and Ten Thousand Project” and is part of a broader effort to promote comprehensive rural reform. The goal of the project is to create a safe and comfortable new home, complete with beautiful landscapes, for the victims of the disaster.

Landscape New Home – Harmonizing with Natural Context and Guided by Feng Shui Principles
A residence is often compared to the human body in its form and structure, in which spring water flows like blood through the veins; the land serves as the skin and flesh; the vegetation is like hair and fur; the exterior is akin to clothing; the doors and gates are seen as the crown, framing the space with dignity. When all these elements exist in harmony and balance, the residence embodies a noble and elegant spirit, representing the highest ideal of auspiciousness. Responding to the site’s terrain, the master plan utilizes surrounding natural resources and creates appealing views. The layout maximizes openness and follows Feng Shui principles, ensuring a spacious and serene environment that is conducive to both gathering and peaceful living.

Adaptive New Home – Tailored to Hakka Traditions

The design is tailored to the agricultural lifestyle and cultural practices of local Hakka residents, featuring a ground-stilt floor, a walk-in courtyard, storage space for farm tools, and areas for various activities. There are three types of apartments available—90, 120, and 140 square meters—each featuring an efficient layout that achieves over 85% space utilization. All units are fully furnished upon delivery to meet the practical living needs of 142 families.

Cultural New Home – A Tribute to Lingnan Architecture

The design honors local folk customs, ancestral traditions, and the spiritual connection that relocated residents have with their roots. It emphasizes the harmony between regional architectural styles and the natural environment. The development includes integrated photovoltaic roofs and stone-textured paint for the exterior, offering a modern interpretation of the traditional “white walls and gray tiles.” A central, enclosed service center serves as a multipurpose venue for community events, such as weddings, funerals, and cultural festivals. The landscape design incorporates elements of Hakka culture and red culture, showcasing their integration in the intricate details.

Smart New Home – A Sustainable Resettlement Model

This project incorporates cutting-edge construction practices and sustainable technologies. Key features include enhanced waterproofing, robust foundation and safety measures, 100% wastewater treatment, complete broadband coverage, comprehensive waste recycling, and integrated photovoltaic systems for clean energy.

The Resettlement Community Project in Songyuan Town, Meixian District, Meizhou City, known as “New Home for Hakka”, places a strong emphasis on respecting local culture. The project deeply explores the essence of Hakka traditions, seamlessly incorporating them into both the architectural and landscape design. This thoughtful integration not only reinforces the sense of belonging and cultural identity among the resettled residents but also transforms the new homes into more than just a refuge for those affected by the disaster, serving as a vital platform for the preservation and promotion of Hakka culture.

Project Details:-
Firm
China Construction Science and Technology

Architect
Dai Qiong

Project Name
Project Design of Resettlement Community in Songyuan Town, Meixian District, Meizhou City

Project Category
Housing Multi-Family Concept

Team
Chief designers: Dai Qiong, Huang Jiawei, Chen Ying, Yan Peiqi, Tao Jingwen, Chen Heming, Deng Songwen, Zhang Yifei; China Construction Science and Technology: Zhang Jialin, Chen Dechao, Lin Lineng, Chen Qingzi, Yan Kun, Li Wei, Zhang Xiaoyi, Liu Feihai, Pan Xuzhao, Peng Zhao, Zhao Wenbin, Wang Yi, Zheng Wenguo, Liu Wenlai, Wang Lianbin, Chen Quan, Feng Xiaoan, Fang Yuan, Zha Chengheng, Jiang Ting, Yuan Jiajia, Zhou Cao, Zheng Qian, Tang Zhang, Zhang Wei, Chen Peichao, Zheng Yajun, Kang Yuanfei, Li Dan; Project Department: Dou Yudong, Zhao Baojun, Wei Changyu, Chi Yaorong, Peng Yu; Bureau of Public Works of Shenzhen Municipality: Du Guobiao, Li Yuan, Wang Zijia, Liu Feng, Jia Yiming, Hu Chengtao; Housing and Construction Bureau of Shenzhen Municipality: Liu Xiaobin

Project Location
Meizhou City, Guangdong Province, China

Country
China

Photography ©Credit
China Construction Science and Technology