Jingdezhen Pengjia Alley Compound
by Beijing AN-DESIGN Architects Co. Ltd., Beijing Tsinghua Tongheng Urban Planning & Design Institute Co. Ltd., and Beijing Tsingshang Architectural Design and Research Institute Co. Ltd.
Client Jingdezhen Taoyang Real Estate Co. Ltd.
Award RIBA International Awards for Excellence 2024
The Jingdezhen Pengjia Alley Compound project is an incredibly thorough, sensitive, and respectful approach to the preservation of a historic building that is much needed in China.
All too often, developers and clients create replicas of old buildings, over dealing with the inherent messiness of a preservation project. Hopefully this project can serve as an exemplar for the true value of historic preservation, especially as a sustainable approach to reviving cities and towns of all scales.
The architect’s approach has been to treat each element with utmost respect. From older relics dating to Ming/Oing dynasty to remnants from the 90s post cultural revolution renovations. The idiosyncrasies and layers of history are retained and revealed.
At the same time, with regard to wooden structures, there was a conscious choice to leave the new wooden structures without any stain, so that there is a clear distinction against the old wood (darkened with time).
This also highlights the extreme care with which the wooden structures are restored piece by piece, with ancient joinery techniques and craftsmanship.
The project is an outstanding example of excellence in practice in building preservation and reinvention.
The architect’s curatorial approach, knowledge and respect of traditional craft and architectural history has been woven into a modern programme. All to both restore and reimagine the building within the community. Securing this significant piece of heritage for the enjoyment and education of future generations.
Location: Jingdezhen City, China
Date of completion: 01/05/2021
Cost: £8,810,000.00
Gross internal area: 3360 m²
Contractor: Shanghai Greenland Construction (Group) Co., Ltd.
