RSHP's Latest Project in Shenzhen Completes

Qianhai SZHK Youth Innovation and Entrepreneur Hub, Northern District is an urban oasis of innovation that signifies a major milestone in the wider growth of Qianhai. Nestled within the burgeoning high rises of the new urban development zone, the ‘super low rise’ hub is a nucleus of tech talent that provides a dynamic link between the local community and an emerging skyline.

Centred around the concept of an ‘urban living room’, the masterplan by RSHP fosters collaboration and connection at multiple levels. Sixteen buildings are connected by an elevated sky deck at level three with landscaped gardens that accommodate flexible office space. Commercial spaces can be divided into open plan, cellular or mixed office units meanwhile an on-site metro and bus station create an easy commute to surrounding residential areas.

The central square provides a space for shared outdoor activities – from social meetings to sports, relaxation and regeneration. A large, landscaped park offers amenity and retail programs, furthering opportunities for interaction. At the heart of the development is the landmark cultural and arts building located at the main entrance to the park with a large multi-purpose hall, exhibition and office spaces. The raised landmark building offers the opportunity to showcase locally developed innovative technologies combined with a series of cultural programmes.

The hub hosted the 9th Bi-City Biennale of Urbanism\Architecture as a Qianhai Subvenue in 2023 – exemplifying its prominence within the Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone. The completion of the hub also encourages greater integration between Qianhai, Hong Kong and Macau.

As with all RSHP projects, the masterplan has placed people first. Transforming a 350m x 350m plot of brownfield land, the fully pedestrianised development is surrounded by walkable streets, green courtyards with urban gardens, avenues lined with trees, and water features. Described as a ‘breathing organism’, the hub applies green building energy-saving operation and management solutions and as a result has been awarded the BEAM Plus Excellence grade in Management and Energy Use. Wayfinding is encouraged through coloured overhangs that also serve as a comfortable setting for outside events.

Ben Warner, Managing Director in Asia, RSHP, said: “RSHP have succeeded in creating a buzzing destination of innovation, creativity, culture, and connection. We celebrate the success of the Qianhai SZHK Youth Innovation and Entrepreneur Hub as an urban work-life balance and as an anchor for sociability and human connection.”

Francis Yuen, Senior Associate, RSHP said: “Culture, community and innovation go hand-in-hand. We’re proud to have created a place that serves both the young tech entrepreneurs as well as local residents who are drawn to the expansive greenery of the park.”

Stephen Spence, Associate Partner and Project Lead, said: “Conceived as a temporary set of buildings, this ‘super low rise’ hub sets out to create a flexible people focussed ‘oasis’ within the heart of Qianhai – a true ‘urban living room’. The landscaped multi-levelled public realm connects directly to the large adjoining residential community allowing easy access to both public facilities and to the local metro and bus station within the site.”

Shenzhen Qianhai Industrial Development Group Ltd. Co., said: “We are thrilled to witness the successful completion and operation of the Qianhai SZHK Youth Innovation and Entrepreneur Hub, Northern District. RSHP have created a vibrant centre of innovation and community and the positive response from innovators and the local community justifies its long-term value and significance within Qianhai.”