Mansions beyond Springs

About The Entry

The landscape design of this demonstration area is deeply rooted in the regional cultural identity of Jinan, known as the “City of Springs.” Guided by the core concept of “Using Springs as Ink, the Garden as Paper,” the design deconstructs the natural textures of Jinan’s Seventy-Two Famous Springs and the spatial wisdom of northern classical gardens. It continues the spatial essence of Baotu Spring Park’s “water‑adhering garden” to create a contemporary demonstration landscape that embodies both ceremonial order and secluded poetic charm.

The design adopts “Three Realms of Retreat” as its three‑fold spatial narrative, weaving together a series of functional modules: a ceremonial entrance, a water‑lane street, a central waterscape, a sunken courtyard, and show gardens. Through the careful sequencing of corridors, bridges, and garden paths, it creates a touring experience where each step reveals a new scene. The design connects the ground floor and the lower level (basement) to form a three‑dimensional landscape system, balancing a sense of homecoming ritual with the freedom of garden exploration. Water serves as the heart of the landscape, integrating diverse forms—springs, waterfalls, ponds, and streams—alongside richly layered plant communities. Through fine control of materials, light, shadow, and vertical design, the project achieves a contemporary reinterpretation of traditional Chinese scholar‑garden aesthetics.

The project upholds sustainable design principles, prioritizing native and locally adapted tree species of Jinan to establish plant communities that are well‑adapted and low‑maintenance. The water features incorporate a recirculating purification system, enabling water recycling. The site’s original topography is optimized through vertical design, balancing ecological efficiency with material recyclability. The result is a low‑impact, environmentally responsible presentation of Jinan’s spring‑city garden landscape.