LIBERAL ART CITY

About The Entry

The project centers on the concept of Gilded Years, employing a “Garden within a Garden” narrative inspired by traditional oriental landscape architecture. It blends Eastern and Western cultural aesthetics, creating a layered living experience rich in temporal and spatial charm. A centuries-old ginkgo tree serves as the spiritual and natural centerpiece, presenting a design challenge due to its expansive canopy and root system, which conflict with conventional homecoming circulation and ceremonial courtyard arrangements.

Instead of avoiding the ancient tree, the design reorients the spatial logic around it. An inner garden, semi-enclosed by buildings and covered corridors, surrounds the ginkgo. The homecoming path meanders past screen walls and verandas, using traditional concealment techniques to set the ginkgo as the ultimate visual focus. Cascading steps and water features create an islet-like terrain, separating public activity zones from the tree’s roots while establishing a ceremonial viewing sequence. A central open lawn mirrors the tree canopy and is minimally adorned with natural stone and sculptures, emphasizing the ginkgo as the absolute visual focal point.

Circular forms guide the overall design, reflecting oriental philosophy and the cyclic nature of life. Refined stone screen walls, water courtyards, green islets, and shaded corridors produce flowing light and shadow effects, offering ever-changing scenery along the walking path. The landscape functions as more than a residence; it is a timeless retreat for leisure, contemplation, and appreciation.

Sustainability is integral to the design. Thoughtful spatial layout and terrain interventions conserve the ancient ginkgo while balancing ecological preservation with functional needs. By integrating natural heritage, cultural symbolism, and modern residential requirements, the project protects invaluable resources and establishes a living model that harmonizes historical depth with contemporary life quality. It embodies the pursuit of refined aesthetics and delivers profound cultural and social value through the seamless fusion of tradition and modernity.