Xujiahui Square
Shanghai, China
2005
The Xujiahui Square is the most prominent space in the Xujiahui area, and as such, it embodies the identity of the district as a symbolic space rich in character and activity. At present, both cars and pedestrians are plagued by a poor circulation system: heavy traffic congestion is accompanied by a set of complicated pedestrian links between the five corners that frame the intersection. This new Xujiahui Square will be framed on the northeast side by a semi-elliptical water basin with a fountain pedestrian bridge which crosses over Zhaojiabang Road, and on the northwest side by a large fountain shooting up to 40 meters into the air. The space around the fountain and underneath the bridge will have outdoor cafes where people can gather and rest.