XISUI Design creates Red Dunes, a space for exploring, playing and experimenting

Red Dunes, the project created by the XISUI Design studio, is a fascinating and stimulating space for children's activities and for the inhabitants of Guanggang New Town, in the province of Guangzhou in China. The sinuous red dunes, like waves sculpted by the hand of an artist, create an enchanting landscape that invites children to explore, play and experiment, between nature and creativity. The project has captured international attention and was chosen as the Popular Choice winner at the prestigious 2023 Architizer A+ Awards.

The Red Dunes are a real paradise for children's activities, a harmonious space that invites them to explore and discover, where the landscape becomes the perfect stage for endless adventures, integrating distinct areas for different age groups and offering opportunities for play and interaction for everyone.
A result obtained using cutting-edge technologies and advanced design techniques.
Managing rainwater flow is one of the complex elements of the project. Through accurate calculations and simulations, a natural drainage system was created without the use of surface drains, in order not to spoil the beauty of the landscape. Rainwater is naturally dispersed within green areas and channelled to designated drainage points. An innovative solution that demonstrates XISUI Design's attention to the environment and its respectful integration with the surrounding nature.

Another challenge faced by the architects was the construction of a concrete shell structure, a small engineering masterpiece. The use of concrete, a material known for its flexibility and practicality, has made it possible to create this undulating structure whose shape emulates the cave-like topography of the natural landscape, offering spaces to climb at the top and sheltered areas below. Inspired by the load transfer mechanisms in natural structures, the architects created large spans with very thin structural thicknesses. The design solution adopted by XISUI Design creates a visual cohesion between structure and landscape. By optimising the overall spatial efficiency, the architects have, in fact, achieved significant material savings compared to a traditional structure of the same size. A further proof of the commitment of the XISUI Design studio and its designers to an ecological and efficient architecture. The Red Dunes are therefore more than just a playground: the work inspires both children and adults to connect with nature and to experience the joy of outdoor play. Through meticulous attention to detail, the use of cutting-edge technologies and the respectful integration with the surrounding environment, XISUI Design has created an extraordinary space that embodies the essence of play, exploration and sustainability.

(Agnese Bifulco)

Images courtesy of XISUI Design and v2com

Official Project Name: Natural and Organic: Red Dunes Playtopia
Location: Guanggang New Town, Guangzhou Province, China
Client: Guangdong Poly Urban Development Co., Ltd.

Architects/designers: Hu Yihao
Project Manager: Peng Yang

Design team: XISUI Design

Structural Consultant: Shanghai Chenggang Structural Design Associates & Spiring Architectural Design
Construction: XISUI Design
Photographer: Hu Yihao, XISUI Design

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