The New

Structuralism
the most 8 recognised architectural styles that have been applied in many popular structures around the globe.

Greek and Roman Classical Architecture Baroque Architecture Modern Architecture

( 5th century bce in Greece to ( first half of 20th century) Post-Modern Architecture
( late 16th-century)
the 3rd century ce in Rome) ( from the late 1970s)

New structuralism
Gothic Architecture Neoclassical Architecture ( from 1973 )
( mid-12th century to the ( 18th and early 19th centuries) Structuralism Architecture
16th century) ( mid 20th century)
Structuralism theory
Structuralism is a movement in architecture
and urban planning evolved around the middle
of the 20th century. It was a reaction to CIAM-
Functionalism (Rationalism) which had led to a
lifeless expression of urban planning that
ignored the identity of the inhabitants and
urban forms.
Shifting towered the new structuralism …
The Structuralism of the 1970s encountered limits in complexity that were
insurmountable at the time.
After that in 1990s we have been witnessing a revival of structuralist tendencies in
architecture as a result to the appearing of information technology, which has
opened up new possibilities for dealing with complexity.

Times are changing and so is the role of an architect. To adapt to modern times,
architecture needs to embrace modern tools and computer technology. The
emergence of new technologies can reshape the future of architecture.
The New Structuralism

The new structuralism It is a new theory of structuring in

architecture, which has broad implications for the way we
think, conceive, and materialize architectural design
through the new digital methods and computational
technologies in design.
Characteristics of new structuralism building :
1. Lightweight structure : It has a high resistance to weight, which
makes the structure itself weigh less .

2. Sustainability : steel can be recycled and reused endlessly

without compromising its impressive physical properties.

3. Transparency : transparency in steel structure with glass panels

indicates how clear the visual boundary between the interior and
the exterior space.

4. Geometry : determining the geometry of the steel structure .

 The first example of new structuralism

If there is a historical point of departure for the evolution of a new structuralism, it is locates it in the
relationship which developed between Jørn Utzon, Ove Arup and Jack Zunz in the structuring and materialisation
of the Sydney OperaHouse (1957–73). 1 In the final solution the problem of the geometry of the covering tiles
influenced the design of the rib structure and the overall form of the roof.
The Technology Tools
that led to the emergence of the new structuralism …
The Technology Tools That Led To The Emergence Of The New
Structuralism …

1. Architectural formation in virtual reality

One of the most powerful changes shaped by the new technological
development is the shift away from 2D design graphics and layout
on the ground, to virtual 3D environments that closely resemble real
life.
Such as 3d max,revit
The Technology Tools That Led To The Emergence Of The New
Structuralism …

2. Building Information Modeling

(BIM)
the foundation of digital transformation in the
architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC)
industry The use of BIM provides space for better
collaboration because each person and expertise area
can add their piece to the same model, instead of
broken out onto multiple versions of a 2D paper
drawing.
The Technology Tools That Led To The Emergence Of The New
Structuralism …

3.Control of the properties of building materials

After the emergence of technology, various industries
developed, the most important of which are building
materials and glass, where it became possible to
control the properties of materials
The Technology Tools That Led To The Emergence Of The New
Structuralism …

4. Computer Numerically Controlled machine( CNC

Laser cutting machine
It is any machine that is numerically controlled using a
computer it is able to cut steel ,aluminium and other
building material .it is characterized by high speed, high
accuracy and high efficiency, reducing working time and
preserving the life of the cutting tool, increasing
productivity, and producing complex crafts easily.
The Technology Tools That Led To The Emergence Of The New
Structuralism …

5. 3D Printing
3D printing is a construction technology in which
the project pieces can be printed and then
transported to the job site, ready for use
immediately. This can allow you to get materials
faster and streamline the process.
Technology has not only overcome the difficulties of construction or eased it and provided
comfortable spaces, but it is trying to change an image that has occupied a space in the human
architectural imagination for thousands of years.
Categories For The Generation And Engineering Of Geometrically Complex Forms
as outlined here by
Wolf Mangelsdorf of Buro Happold :.
1. Form Finding
2. Free Form
3. Simple mathematical
geometry
4. Hybrid approach

1.Form Finding
produces very distinctive and highly efficient
structures for large-scale lightweight enclosures.
Defined by internal and external forces, these
kinds of surfaces .directly related to physics.

foster + Partners with Buro Happold, Khan Shatyr

Entertainment Centre, Kazakhstan, 2010 A series of
physical models was used to develop the structure
Categories For The Generation And Engineering Of Geometrically Complex Forms
as outlined here by
Wolf Mangelsdorf of Buro Happold :.
1. Form Finding
2. Free Form
3. Simple mathematical
geometry
4. Hybrid approach

2.Free Form
Free form as a concept describes development of
the form independent or either physical
constraints or the limitations of the simple
mathematical geometries..

Zaha Hadid Architects with Buro Happold, Glasgow

Museum of Transport, Glasgow, due for completion
2011
Categories For The Generation And Engineering Of Geometrically Complex Forms
as outlined here by
Wolf Mangelsdorf of Buro Happold :.

3.Simple Mathematical Geometry

This category refers to complex geometries that are
based on basic mathematical geometries: sphere,
cylinder, torus, line, circle, ellipse. These are
comparatively simple to handle in a computer model.

Grimshaw Architects with Buro Happold, Milan E3

Exhibition Centre, Milan, 2006
Categories For The Generation And Engineering Of Geometrically Complex Forms
as outlined here by
Wolf Mangelsdorf of Buro Happold :.

4.Hybrid approach
brings together aspects of all three of the above-
mentioned methods. It allows a high degree of
freedom in the development of the form, but
integrates concepts based on physics, form description
and fabrication.

Ron Arad Associates with Buro Happold, Médiacité

Liège, Liège, 2009
To summarise:
When designing complex three-dimensional shapes and geometries,
structural engineering has to be a creative contribution to the design
process, so that a full integration and coordination of aesthetical and
physical aspects can be achieved
Pioneers architect
 Pioneers architect

Zaha Hadid

Jørn Utzon
Norman Foster

Werner Sobek
Pioneers Structural Engineers
When we talk about well-known people in this field, we must remember the structural
engineers, because this successes is collaborated work between them and the architect

1. Arup
Founded by Mr. Uwe Arup in 1946

2. Buro Happold
It was, in 1976 by Sir edmund happoled

3. AKT II
It was founded as Adams Kara Taylor in 1996 by Hanif kara
Examples :

Sydney Australia

Jørn Utzon, Architect, Arup, Structural

Engineers, Sydney Opera House, Sydney
Australia, 1957–73
Examples :

Morpheus Hotel

/ Zaha Hadid Architects

Structural Engineers buro happoled, 2018
,china
Examples :

Zayed National Museum

UAE (ongoing, architect: Foster + Partners

Structural Engineers AKT II,
Zaha Hadid architect
1980-2016

Work in all scales and in all sectors .

They create transformation cultural , corporate , residential and

other spaces that work in synchronicity with their surroundings.
* 950 projects
* 44 countries
* 400 staff
* 55 nations
Example of zaha work

If we take a look on zaha work We can say

that Zaha is not associated with a particular
architectural movement or style . She creates
contemporary iconic architecture that takes
architecture to a new level, not only
physically, but socially and culturally.
 The Vitra Fire Station
Zaha was officially associated with
DECONSTRUCTION after participating in the
exhibition held at the Museum of Modern Art
in New York in 1988 , This continued until 1994
when it was able to achieve the first built
structure, which is the Vitra Fire Station.
The Art Center In Cincinnati 2003
In the next few years, Zaha was able to create
a number of MODERN minimalist buildings,
such as the Art Center in Cincinnati, to enter
the doors of practical life in architecture.
Heydar Aliyev Center
At the beginning of development of
technology and computer software, Zaha
returned to challenge reality by using digital
tools to take her work away from
DECONSTRUCTION to enter the world of
curves that erase the line between earth,
architecture and sky
Leeza SOHO
Later time , Zaha went to work ON NEW
STRUCTURALISM , as she had completed many of
this type of buildings .
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza - 2021
T h e “ B R E AT H I N G " b u i l d i n g
ZAHA HADID ARCHITECTS
Guangzhou
Infinitus Plaza Profile
- City: Guangzhou Shi
- Country: China
- Architects: Zaha Hadid
Architects.
- Number of floors:
8 floors (above the ground)
2 floors (Below ground)

- Function : Office and

Commercial Building
- Completion Year : 2021
- Site area :45,280 sqm
Gross floor area : 185,6643 sqm
Above Ground :118,200 sqm
Below Ground : 67,443 sqm
Height :35 m
- Material: 25,088.33 tones of
recycled materials have been used in
the construction of Infinitus Plaza,
primarily: steel, copper, glass,
aluminum alloy profiles, gypsum
products and wood.
33
What does make Infinitus Plaza as a
Distinguish THEORITICAL model?

1. As one of Zaha's legacy projects ,

Our project considered as THE LATEST and
continues the Zaha’s new structuralist
design style, with nearly 20,000 diamond-
shaped perforated aluminum panels with
irregularities as the exterior skin of the
building.

2. This project was chosen to make it clear to

everyone that successful design based on
theory is not only related to old buildings.

3. The site challenges , the client vision , the

theoretical mind of the designer are
working together to produce a piece of
art.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza
Background…
Infinitus Plaza defines a gateway to
the new Baiyun Central Business
District. Built on the site of the
decommissioned Baiyun Airport,
Located adjacent to Feixiang Park
station on Line 2 of the Guangzhou
Metro.
Infinitus Plaza is the new global
headquarters of Infinitus China.
Incorporating work environments
designed to nurture connectivity,
creativity and entrepreneurship,
the new headquarters also includes
the group’s herbal medicine
research facilities and safety
assessment labs as well as a
learning center for conferences and
exhibitions.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza

Location …
In the Baiyun Central Business
District of the city of Guangzhou,
the company Infinitus China has
inaugurated its new main offices.

Site is surrounded by a bus station

and subway, block and external
transportation is convenient; metro
line 2 across the project site.

The streets that surrounds the

project :
1. Yuncheng nan er road on the
north.
2. Yuncheng nan yi road on the
south.
3. Yuncheng dong road on the east.
4. Yuncheng xi road on the west.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza
Location … Wanda Plaza
It is adjacent to Feixiang
Park on the south side
and Wanda Plaza on the
North side, and Metro
Line 2 traverses the site,
occupying a prime

Metro line 2
location.
The design connects with
the city and implements
the latest technological
solutions and
construction methods to
create a functional,
adaptable and enjoyable
workplace,'' said Satoshi
Ohashi, Zaha Hadid
Architects, Director, Metro line 2
China. 80 M

Feixiang
Gongyuan
Park Bus
Station
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza

New Structuralism and

Form Statement
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza

BIG CHALLENGES !!
Site Challenges :
1. One of the most challenges
Client Vision :
that contributed We need to reflect the
significantly in the Infinitus' commitment to the
formation of infinitus plaza future, as well as our spirit of
inventiveness and
was the Guangzhou humid
innovation, offering our The
subtropical monsoon
climate. customers and employees a
dynamic new environment
Philosophy
2. Infinitus Plaza straddles the that will also drive the of THE
economic growth of the
metro’s sub-surface
tunnel, dividing the site in Baiyun District and the INFINITY
surrounding areas.”
proportion 1 : 2 . SYMBOL
3. How can the site be
planned to respond to the
government’s demand for
accessing to the open city
axis, the high green rate of
35%?
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza

The Philosophy of THE INFINITY SYMBOL

Zaha Hadid developed the design of Guangzhou
Infinitus Plaza
With concepts of :
1. Integration.
2. Connectivity
3. Fluidity .

With a vision for:

1. Nurturing better health and wellbeing through their
work and important community programs.

Zaha translated this vision to create a new

workplace environment and corporate culture that
fosters openness and communication between ( People
Nature and Time).
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza

The Concept – Formation Strategy SYMBOL

1 1
2 1

1. Zaha selected the infinity symbol ∞ 2. Modify the point of intersection of 3. Use the rectangular shape with
to reflect the philosophy of Infinity the symbol to intersect with line 2 so rounded corners for each part of the
commitment to the future. that the ratio between the two ends building to maintain GFA (gross floor
of the symbol becomes 1: 2 area) and create iconic fluid featured
structure.

4. The interconnecting bridges were added to enhance the integration and 5. Green courtyards and central atria
connectivity in the work place and promote individual and overall wellness. were added to reach the government’s
demand and to enhance the workplace.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza

Site analysis
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza
Fire lane and fire staging .
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza
Vehicular circulation .
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza
Pedestrian circulation .
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza
Entrances .
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza
Garage Entrances .
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza
New Structuralism Characteristic:

Unique groundbreaking and artistic

NEW SRTRUCTURALIST design, with:
1. Peculiar shapes.
2. Smooth curved surfaces.
3. Complex exterior walls structures are one
of the biggest highlights of the project.
4. Fully Sustainable application.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza

New Structuralism
as a theory and a role design decision…
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza

New Structuralism

1. Construction technology and Façade design..

2. the impact of the structure on the occupant

inside the building .

3. the new structuralism impact and interaction

with the pedestrian , the site and the surrounding
environment .
New Structuralism
1. CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY &
FAÇADE DESIGN … “You don’t always have to show art in
what’s called a white box. You can have
a kind of complexity within an exhibit
which actually respects the art as well.”
Zaha Hadid
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

Construction Material …
25,088.33 tonnes of
recycled materials have
been used in the
construction of Infinitus
Plaza, primarily:
1. Steel.
2. Copper.
3. Glass.
4. Aluminum alloy profiles.
5. Gypsum products .
6. wood.
Optimization of the structure has
reduced the amount of concrete
required and increased the proportion
of recyclable content.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

Construction Technology “Double-Layer Green Jacket”

The curtain wall of the building adopts

a double curtain design, which is
equivalent to wearing a "double-layer
green jacket", which can not only play a
good sound insulation effect, but also
enable everyone to experience the real
warmth in winter and coolness in the
summer.
 Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

Construction Technology “Double-Layer Green Jacket”

The flowing and undulating combination of the

curtain wall forms the changing rhythm and
texture of the facade, which has the effect of
1. Regulating the temperatures of the inner
courtyard.
2. It is also conducive to the energy saving of the
building.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

Construction Technology – Detailed Façade Component …

Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

Construction Technology – Detailed Façade Component …

The below diagram illustrates the
relationship of the exterior aluminum
perforated panels , steel sub frame ,
Brackets , node points , Beams ,Fascia
attached to main building slab edges .
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

Construction Technology – Detailed Façade Component …

Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

Construction Technology “Double-Layer Green Jacket”

Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

Façade System …
Façade
The Guangzhou infinity plaza façade system
seeks to reinforce the concept of infinite rings.
A part from fulfilling the basic function of
building enclosure, it represents a series of
surfaces that stretch and expand a cross
multiple floor levels , as such it is highly
expressive and vital to central architectural
theme of the project .

The Guangzhou infinitus façade system is

sophisticated component of the project, its
choices of material and geometry control will
have significant impact to the overall quality of
the project, as well as the corporate identity of
infintus , as a result , it requires a careful
development process between the architect ,
the façade engineer , and the client to ensure
the best final outcome.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

Façade System - Setout geometry (Contour)

Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

Façade System - Setout geometry (Rationalization)

Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

Façade System - Setout geometry (Rationalization)

Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

Façade System – Panel type

Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

Façade System - Brackets

Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

Façade System – Structure pipes

Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

Façade System – Final Panelization

Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

Façade System - Feature cladding layer

Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

ELEVATIONS …

Building B – East Elevation

Building A – West Elevation

Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

ELEVATIONS …
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

ELEVATIONS …

Building B – West Elevation

Building A – East Elevation

New Structuralism
2. THE IMPACT OF THE STRUCTURE ON THE
OCCUPANTS INSIDE THE BUILDING ….
How new Structuralism does Enhancing Workplace Environment??

“Architecture is really about well-

being. I think that people want to
feel good in a space… On one hand
it’s about shelter, but it’s also about
pleasure.” Zaha Hadid
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

PLANS (FUNCTION ANALYSIS) …

Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

PLANS (FUNCTION ANALYSIS) …

Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

PLANS (FUNCTION ANALYSIS) …

Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

PLANS (FUNCTION ANALYSIS) …

Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

PLANS (FUNCTION ANALYSIS) …

Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

PLANS (FUNCTION ANALYSIS) …

Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

PLANS (FUNCTION ANALYSIS) …

Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

PLANS (FUNCTION ANALYSIS) …

2.1 Enhancing Workplace Environment through
SOLAR ANALYSIS of the
Structure …
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Enhancing Workplace Environment through Annual Solar Irradiation Analysis …
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Enhancing Workplace Environment through Annual Solar Irradiation Analysis …

Annual solar irradiation analysis has determined the width of the outdoor
terraces to self-shade the building.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Enhancing Workplace Environment through Annual Solar Irradiation Analysis …

This analysis has also defined

the external perforated
aluminum shading panels to
optimize reductions in solar
heat gain.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Enhancing Workplace Environment through Overshadowing Analysis …

These measures, together

with double-insulated low-E
glazing provide effective
shading and heat insulation
that ensures good natural
light throughout the building
while reducing solar heat gain
and energy consumption.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

PLANS (FUNCTION ANALYSIS) …

Equipped to monitor temperature,

carbon dioxide, PM2.5 particulates
and other pollutants, the building’s
smart management system with
fresh air linkage ensures indoor air
quality, detecting the level of
occupancy and automatically
adjusting for optimal comfort with
minimal energy consumption while
also learning to accurately predict
daily occupancy trends for
increased efficiencies.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

2.2 Enhancing Workplace Environment through

INTERCONNECTING BRIDGES …
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Enhancing Workplace Environment through Interconnecting Bridges …
The interconnecting bridges house a
variety of flexible communal spaces
for employees that promote
individual and overall wellness
including gym and exercise rooms,
recreation and relaxation zones as
well as restaurant and cafe. the
bridges also connect the plaza’s
offices with further shopping and
dining areas.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza
Enhancing Workplace Environment through Interconnecting Bridges …

The longest corridor spans up

to 90 meters, allowing the
central courtyard to get the
maximum daylight and leisure
life experience.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza
Enhancing Workplace Environment through Interconnecting Bridges …

The covered bridge accommodates

various public spaces, including
gymnasiums, restaurants, cafes and
entertainment areas.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza

These outdoor communal areas are linked

together with the rooftop jogging track
and walking paths.
Green roofs comprise 49.36% of the
project’s total roof area.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

2.3 Enhancing Workplace Environment through

CENTRAL ATRIA & COURTYARDS …
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Enhancing Workplace Environment through Central Atria and Courtyards …

The design creates a variety of shared indoor and outdoor spaces within the workplace that
build the strong sense of community which defines the group’s corporate culture.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Enhancing Workplace Environment through Central Atria and Courtyards …

The building uses a "joint

insulation glass system"
to maximize the
introduction of natural
light into the interior.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Enhancing Workplace Environment through Central Atria and Courtyards …
Mirror Art Realm - The impact of mental image

The building transfers energy, movement and infinite possibilities with a flowing “infinite ring” on
multiple levels . The landscape extends the architectural curve combined with the transparent and
integrated glass curtain wall, it shows infinity.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Enhancing Workplace Environment through Central Atria and Courtyards …
Mirror Art Realm - The impact of mental image
The visual tension of the cycle, and the organic
integration of corporate culture, landscape feelings
and place spirit.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Enhancing Workplace Environment through Central Atria and Courtyards …
Mirror Art Realm - The impact of mental image

While echoing the brilliance of nature, a sense of community with vitality had been created . The pure
lines of the building’s curtain wall complement the quiet and gracefulness of the streamlined steps.
Without consciousness, it will fall into a state of concentration and meditation, stimulating the
energy from the inner subconscious.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Enhancing Workplace Environment through Central Atria and Courtyards …
The Commercial Building’s Atrium
A calm and soothing line connects the four
entrances and exits of the commercial
building’s atrium. The flowing water drops to
the feet. When there is no water, it becomes a
dry stream, attracting people to linger and
experience the leisurely life fragments.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Enhancing Workplace Environment through Central Atria and Courtyards …
The Office Building’s Atrium
The atrium of the office building uses
Lingnan gardens as the main story line
In response to the request of the owner,
drawing on the landscaping technique of
“hometown water” to create a
spectacular scene of the confluence of
three rivers of Guangzhou. The face-to-
face relationship interprets the “∞”
cycle symbol from a bird’s-eye view, and
at the same time reflects the interest of
Chinese Lingnan gardens in the
mountains and rocks.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Enhancing Workplace Environment through Central Atria and Courtyards …
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Enhancing Workplace Environment through Central Atria and Courtyards …
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Enhancing Workplace Environment through Central Atria and Courtyards…

The roof of the building atrium is made of the same environmental protection material as the Beijing Olympic venue
"Water Cube"-a double-layer air cushion coating of tetrafluoroethylene copolymer ETFE, with a light transmittance of
40%
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Enhancing Workplace Environment through Central Atria and Courtyards …
• Operated by the building’s smart
management system and powered
by photovoltaics .
• a network of sprinklers spray
atomized particles of collected
rainwater onto the ETFE membrane
roof above each atrium to dissipate
heat by evaporative cooling.
• This translucent, double-layered
ETFE membrane roof incorporates a
60cm cavity of compressed air.
• Activated when the membrane’s
exterior surface is heated to 35°C by
solar radiation.
• Spraying for 3- 4 minutes every half
an hour will cool its surface
temperature by 14°C, effectively
lowering interior temperatures by
5°C.
• The rooftop solar water heating
further reduces energy
requirements.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Enhancing Workplace Environment through Central Atria and Courtyards …
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Enhancing Workplace Environment through Central Atria and Courtyards …

Infinitus Plaza is not only a brand-

new workplace, but also a new
home, allowing all people in it to
experience its functionality,
flexibility, and fun, and enhance
people's happiness in a fast-paced
city index.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism

New Structuralism
THE IMPACT OF THE NEW STRUCTURALISM IMPACT
AND INTERACTION WITH THE PEDESTRIAN , THE SITE
AND THE SURROUNDING ENVIRONMENT ...

“Obviously for some people there

is a big connection between music
and the way you can create a
space” Zaha Hadid
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
The Interaction between the structure and the eyes of pedestrians ...

Different viewing angles will present different facade effects.

When natural light shines on the building curtain wall from different angles, the diamond-shaped
aluminum panels can reflect the ever-changing light and shadow effects from different angles,
making the building a new flowing landscape as a whole.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Landscape Design Development … Green Continuation Interface (Form beyond space)

In order to echo the open enthusiasm of the city, the design focuses on local plants, combining low
ground cover plants and steps to create a landscape effect with scattered layers and transparent
views, showing the corporate image and creating a friendly urban interface.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Landscape Design Development …

Infinitus plaza has been

designed and constructed
to LEED gold certification
and the equivalent 3-stars
of china’s green building
program with its life cycle
carbon emissions
calculated at 15.3%
embodied carbon and at
84.7% operational carbon
emissions.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Landscape Design Development …
How does the landscape respond to the ultimate inspiration curve of the building so as to achieving the effect of transmitting the influence of
Infinitus’ global headquarters and corporate culture?

The function of the site were combined to continue the

interpretation of the unique curve of Zaha style from the initial
stage of the concept to the presentation of the plan.

By replacing the curve language of the plane with the concept

of contour ridges and slopes, rearranging the spacing between
wiring and lines, and finally outputting a three-dimensional
curve language.

It further combines landscape function spaces such as water

features, benches and grass steps to reshape the lines to form
different matrix modules.

Through dynamic line analysis, each matrix is arranged in

sequence on the central axis.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Solve The Challenges Possessed By Subway Loads
Since Metro Line 2 passes underground
along the central axis, the load of
newly-added structures on the original
backfill of the subway protection area
cannot exceed 20kn/m2. The design
needs to:
1. address the location descriptions
that are different from the original
soil elevation
2. clarify the design elevation and the
subway.
3. clarify The relationship between the
upper cover and the construction of
the garden at the elevation change
position, including balanced load,
water feature waterproofing,
dredging and drainage,
4. solving the growth of plant roots,
carried out a series of ground
protection measures and
construction process guidance.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Landscape Design Development … After rigorous calculation of the load on the
top plate of the central axis, the highest point
of each matrix is controlled within the
allowable range for refinement, and finally
the north is formed.

An artistic green island on the side and a

central axis square space with a ritual
entrance to the south and a water drop
landscape.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Landscape Design Development … Overlapping Hills (Gravity ,Dynamic and natural curve)

Capturing the spirit of the infinite

flow of the venue, comprehensively
designing demands and constraints,
flexible and subtle, layered details
and stereoscopic visual expression
techniques were used to make the
venue stay, reverie, and engage
with an endless sense of flow and
gravity
Based on the activity path of
business and public users to study
the traffic flow and according to the
distance between the entrances of
the two buildings, the 17-degree
opening path is optimized, naturally
embedded in the flowing hills, and
the interweaving of lines and color
blocks divides the space and
organizes the lines of action.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Landscape Design Development … green islands

Dialogues with the smooth curve of the building, conveys a sense of simplicity, atmosphere,
tranquility and far-reaching atmosphere, making the site a natural visual focus and shaping the
whole The consistency and continuity of the project.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Landscape Design Development … green islands

Each green island is embracing the building with a

pleasant arc, forming a three-dimensional green
landscape under different perspectives. Under
strict green space requirements, a subtle and
elegant communication and leisure space is
interpreted.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Landscape Design Development … Water curtain flowing in nature

• The Dynamic and Static Waterscape :

1. Reflects the light and shadow of the
building
2. The projecting undulating water pattern
adds a sense of rhythm to the space
3. Thereby infecting people’s spiritual world
and the experience of another dimension.

• The South Entrance Plaza serves as :

1. The corporate image display surface
2. Acts as a gathering and distributing
function for people from the park.
3. Connect the inside and outside with vitality
and guide the crowd to gather.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Landscape Design Development … Water curtain flowing in nature
1. Rhythmic springs weaken the noise from the
city.
2. The square pavement uses dark lines to diverge
the curved outline.
3. The 3:1 paving size is selected to add dynamic
and guiding.
4. The lighting atrium under the long-span corridor
of the building is linked to create a circulation of
people Interaction and sharing scenes in a style
space.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Landscape Design Development … Water curtain flowing in nature
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Landscape Design Development … Water curtain flowing in nature

Bathe in the sunlight that penetrates the building, listen to the sound of the wind passing through the
central axis of the city, enjoy the cozy sound of falling water and the noisy atmosphere of human feelings,
and establish an interaction and connection with the venue during gathering, strolling, playing in the
water, and sitting idle.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Landscape Design Development … Green Roof

• The roof is made of permeable concrete to

form a rainwater collection area.

• The gardens on the third, seventh and eighth

floors of the building are planted with local
native plants and equipped with natural
irrigation systems.

• The square is a stepped water landscape.

• The green roof area included in the project

accounts for 49.36% of the total roof area
of ​the project.
Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza and New Structuralism
Landscape Design Development … Glorious outline extending from above

From the green planting area on the ground to the

corridor and roof garden in the middle, the
dynamic and flowing landscape merges with the
architecture, and penetrates into the nature from
bottom to top. Gorgeous and dazzling night lights,
engraving the brilliant outlines of buildings and
landscapes, like a tactful melody, composing the
dynamic and quiet Guangzhou Infinitus Plaza.
Companies that contributed to the completion of the work
Structure: RBS
MEP: BIAD, GDAD
Lighting: LIGHTDESIGN, LUMIA, Holy Power
Landscape: Zaha Hadid Architects, Pubang
Interiors: Zaha Hadid
Architects, GoldMantis, Sundart
Site Supervision: Guangzhou Pearl River
Engineering Construction Supervision
Mep Contractor: Shijian
Facade Contractor: Jangho
Landscape Contractor: Shenzhen Landscape
Design:Patrik Schumacher
Project Director:Satoshi Ohashi
Project Associates:Yang Jingwen, Juan Liu, Martin
Pfleger, Dennis Brezina
Project Architect:Kai-Jui Tsao
Facade Lead:Xuexin Duan, Nan Jiang
Project Team:Congyue Wang, Feifei Fan, Lida
Zhang, Eugene Leung, Lily Liu, Qi Cao, Shu
Hashimoto, Xiaoyu Zhang, Ying Xia, Zhe Xing
Companies that contributed to the completion of the work
Competition Project Directors:Satoshi Ohashi,
Paulo Flores
Competition Associate:Yang Jingwen
Competition Team:Anat Stern, Chaoxiong Huang,
Damiano Rizzini, Harry Spraiter, Marius Cernica,
Tommaso Casucci, Xuexin Duan, Lida Zhang, Shu
Hashimoto
Local Design Institute:GDAD
Façade:BuroHappold Engineering
Signage:Basalt
Quantity Surveyor:Arcadis
General Contractor :Guangdong No.1 Construction
Engineering
Signage Contractor:ATG BEYOND