Way Studio has redesigned and renovated Courtyard 35, which is located east of the Forbidden City in Beijing, China.

Given that the project site at 35 Nanheyan Street is surrounded by high-density residential areas, public activities are constrained by noise and pedestrian flow. To address these challenges, architects Way Studio utilised the existing courtyard conditions of the site and transformed the grey space.

In a traditional hutong setting, applying contemporary frameworks to reinterpret traditional aesthetics aims to redefine the relationship between people and the public spaces within the historic urban fabric.

"Our focus is on integrating innovative lifestyles into the conservative old district, thereby imbuing it with renewed vitality and functionality," said Way Studio.

In the context of today's economic and social conditions, this approach not only challenges conventional perspectives but also provides new insights and solutions for the revitalization of the old city.

"Our goal is to balance the preservation of historical heritage with the adaptation to and advancement of modern societal needs, thereby creating a public space that seamlessly merges historical continuity with contemporary vibrancy," added Way Studio.

"We are dedicated to creating an urban common room that offers visitors a space to experience history and explore the unique aspects of Beijing."

This project has been shortlisted in the rebirth project category of Dezeen Awards China 2024.

Studio: Way Studio
Project: Courtyard 35
Credits: Zheng Tao, Fernie Lai, Zhang ZeQun, Fang Wen, Wang TianMo, Chen Yu and Beijing Helida Building Decoration Engineering