Collaborative Contemporising
In the design of Matro Annex Mall, the client’s vision was to rebrand the mall in a more contemporary style, breathing new life into the prominent structure and contemporising the material specification of its original design.
At 52,000 square meters, the project aims to expand the retail and existing luxury high-end brands, and function as the commercial and trade center of the ancient city Suzhou. The project focused on a plan to give the rebranded property a fresh start.
Most buildings in the area have a layered history applied over the years through multiple alterations. Upon discovering and understanding those layers, the team selectively brings them forward based on contemporary sensibilities by rehashing the façade of the building into bold symmetrical blocks.
With a goal of collaborative contemporising, the team focused on highlighting the modern design details with transparent glass, concrete, steel and sleek finishes. The team then embarked on a process of infusing consistency and character into the property, developing seamless connections to internal spaces through the introduction of elements such as patterned motifs, continuous and clear spaces for shoppers, thereby alluding to the district’s rich history of art and culture.
