Beijing Aegean Square, well-known in the local community as a popular shopping center since 2013, was acquired by the Gohigh Fund in 2019. The ambitious repositioning project to convert the existing structure into a workplace complex began in 2020. The Fusion Center, with an initial Gross Floor Area (GFA) of 100,000 sqm, comprises two interconnected buildings, A and B.

The transformation posed a significant challenge for Woods Bagot: to find an economical and sustainable solution to repurpose the current structure without compromising architectural integrity. The result redefined workplace complex envisioned as a hub of Sharing, Energy and Sustainability. “The functional transformation of modern buildings necessitates a co-creation strategy involving designers, clients, and end users,” says Kun Qi, W-B Associate Principal.

The design strategy primarily focuses on preserving the original building and structure, while introducing modifications that would facilitate its new function. Sunken plaza has been added together with an outdoor atrium to serve food & beverage and other flexible functions. Workplace lifts are added to replace original retail escalators; retail atriums are converted into workplace atriums; simple and efficient floor plans to provide future tenants with maximum flexibility.

Beyond these functional changes, Woods Bagot has given careful attention to the building’s aesthetic appeal. The new façade, designed to harmonize with the surrounding urban context, features a wave-like pattern made from glass and metal fin. This contemporary design not only reflects changes in weather and surroundings but also echoes the simplicity and elegance of the interior design language.

“The renovating process has further changed the building’s function from a multi-purpose mixed use to a single-function corporate headquarters, but our façade has also adapted well to the new functional requirements,” added Hang Xu, W-B Associate Principal, Urban Regeneration Design Leader.

By repositioning the function of Beijing Fusion Center, Woods Bagot’s holistic design approach significantly extends the lifecycle of the current complex, embracing a future-focused, sustainable ethos. This transformation heralds a new era in urban redevelopment and stands as a testament to the innovative and adaptive abilities of Woods Bagot.

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Shirley Hao
Content and Communications Leader (China)