Located in Chengdu, South Golden Bay forms part of the central core lake area of Luxelakes and operates as a model island within the larger development. Designed by Chengdu MaiWei Landscape Architecture Studio, the 4,976-square-meter project presents an integrated approach to ecological restoration, landscape planning, and architectural coordination. Completed in July 2023 for Chengdu Wanhua New City Development Co., the scheme translates environmental ambition into spatial experience.
LANDSCAPE
The design adopts “Over the Wilderness” as its guiding theme. Instead of imposing a dominant formal gesture, the studio applies light landscape intervention to shape the site. The sequence begins at the open lake and transitions toward shoreline wetlands, undulating grasslands, scattered buildings, and finally an elevated viewing platform. This progression establishes a layered spatial narrative that shifts from horizontal to vertical, and from open exposure to secluded retreat. Each transition invites movement and exploration, encouraging visitors to experience changing perspectives within a continuous ecological framework.
The planning strategy draws on the site’s natural advantages and positions landscape as the primary structuring element. Wetlands restore ecological function while shaping public experience. Grasslands create visual softness and extend sightlines toward the water. Architectural volumes appear as punctuations within the terrain, reinforcing a sense of gradual emergence from wilderness. The composition supports daily use while demonstrating environmental performance, positioning the island as both a living space and a case study in sustainable development.
Architecture and landscape operate in close dialogue. Rather than separating built form from terrain, the design team aligns material choices, circulation paths, and spatial rhythms. The result produces visual continuity across the site. Natural elements guide the arrangement of structures, and architectural interventions frame views back toward the lake and vegetation. This coordination reinforces a cohesive identity for South Golden Bay while maintaining ecological sensitivity.
Lead designer Gan Weiwei, supported by chief technical engineer Jin Liangliang and a multidisciplinary team, structured the project around measurable environmental and experiential goals. Construction by Sichuan Chorgin Landscape Co. Ltd., in collaboration with Hom Floraland & Horticulture Co. Ltd., translated the conceptual framework into built form.
Founded in 2020, Chengdu MaiWei Landscape Architecture Studio approaches projects through research-driven methodology and emotional spatial understanding. At South Golden Bay, the studio articulates its position clearly. It treats landscape as both ecological infrastructure and cultural medium. By organizing wetlands, grasslands, buildings, and elevated viewpoints into a coherent system, Luxelakes C7 South Golden Bay Model Island advances a vision in which environmental restoration, daily life, and design clarity coexist within a single territory.
