Cuningham Group’s urban design concept for Tanggu begins the transformation of the Haihe riverfront from its industrial focus to a place offering a variety of recreational experiences.
Haihe Beach Park celebrates the dualism of water as a connector and boundary. Curves, evocative of ripples or waves, are repeatedly used to create the illusion that the riverfront breaks apart into several zones or cultural pavilions, floating like islands in a delta. The pavilions are designed to accommodate outdoor concerts, cafes offering regional cuisine, and local craftsmakers.
The boardwalk’s sandy beaches slope downward to the wading ponds. Large expanses of grass curve like the river, creating an essence of “green water,” paved areas and walkways – which align with the major streets adjacent to the site – curve and flow in watery patterns, and planters of flowers and hedges repeat the rhythm while reflecting the surrounding urban neighborhood.