Architecture Asia Special Issue - ARCASIA Awards for Architecture 2020

JURY CITATION
It is interesting to see old factory buildings converted into a college, which is
quite a unique case. In this project, the architect adapted several old industrial
buildings into different functions of the academy, including a dormitory, library,
student center, science building, classrooms, etc. Each function requires a different
dimension and spatial quality, which is a great challenge for the architect.
Limited by the tight schedule, the architect chose to implant light structural
elements to the original industrial relics. While the old parts remain the least
touch, the newly constructed parts are emphasized by their brand-new materials
and colors, which form a strong contrast that leads to a tension between the
historical and contemporary. One concern is whether the conversion from industrial
buildings to living space can fulfill the requirement of comfort in terms
of thermal insulation and sound isolation. The other concern is that the linear
site layout may lead to inconvenient circulation that troubles the students and
staff. But the jury still decided to award it the Gold Winner for its innovative idea
and good completion.
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