Ningbo’s universal city

The project’s main building facing the Fenghua River is divided into three plots with varying podium areas and proportions, presenting a unique design challenge in optimizing the connection of commercial buildings. The design team tackled this challenge through the strategy of ‘integrated business,’ incorporating the river’s evolution form and utilizing the dimensions of ‘blocking, zoning, and layering’ as well as ‘moving line, splitting volume, and splitting primary and secondary.’ This approach introduced the three major design elements of river, riverbank, and lake, creating a natural and flexible space experience and enhancing commercial cohesion.

To ensure a seamless and enjoyable visitor journey, the ceiling and floor decorations were carefully designed to provide guidance and avoid any sense of separation between spaces. A floating platform was added to the atrium to connect commerce, the community, and visitors. The public spaces within the project feature multiple types of businesses to enhance their public attributes and serve the community. The corridors, designed with steps, not only serve as a means of connecting floors but also provide resting places and contribute to the overall commercial atmosphere.

Ningbo UniPark offers a high-quality and diverse range of brands and business formats across its underground second floor and four above-ground floors. This variety caters to the diverse needs of the riverside community, including retail, catering, supermarkets, parent-child facilities, entertainment, and more. Notable businesses include the high-end boutique supermarket under China Resources Vanguard, the IMAX store of Happy Blue Ocean International Cinema, the Four Seasons Garden concept store of Meland Club, and the Friendship Bookstore. These offerings have elevated the quality of life and consumption experience in the area.

The success of Ningbo UniPark is a result of the close collaboration between Woods Bagot and the Zhonghai team throughout the entire project, from concept development to on-site construction. Despite the challenges posed by the epidemic, Woods Bagot’s cross-studio collaboration and cooperation have been instrumental in realizing this benchmark work, leading the renewal and upgrading of urban commerce.

Delivering a trendy and innovative full-format commerce experience to the Ningbo Riverside community, Ningbo UniPark rejuvenates the city’s lifestyle and brings a unique shopping experience to visitors throughout the year.