The Huaiyang Fuxi Cultural Park project harnesses the natural topology of the area to engineer a water-resilient landscape. Utilizing the concept of a sponge city, the project aims to alleviate flooding risks in the ancient city and purify contaminated waters. Crater-shaped islands emerge as multifunctional spaces to serve the community's diverse needs, while drawing inspiration from ancient Chinese cosmological symbols and the Eight Trigrams. These elements form a unique pattern language throughout the park, blending ecological sustainability with rich cultural narratives and social engagement.

Context and challenges

Located in Huaiyang, in Henan Province, this site boasts a storied past, tracing back to China's first mythical emperor some 6,500 years ago. Fuxi, a pivotal figure in Chinese mythology, is celebrated for his invention of Bagua, or Eight Trigrams, that has deeply influenced the philosophical thought. Historically buffeted by the Yellow River's floods, Huaiyang's landscape, particularly Dragon Lake, embodies centuries of adaptive resilience. However, recent urban expansion has compromised this balance, encroaching on the lake's capacity to manage flood risks and diminishing the area's cultural heritage integrity. In response, a transformative vision was set forth to reclaim a 43-hectare site from encroachment, envisioning a public park that enhances flood resilience, meets community needs, and celebrates the area's rich historical tapestry.

Design strategies and solutions

Addressing the multifaceted challenges, the design strategy introduced innovative solutions, including the creation of a water-resilient sponge landscape. Utilizing on-site cut and fill, 860,000 cubic meters of dirt and debris were recycled to create a landscape comprising numerous islands adorned with flood-resistant vegetation that can regulate 1.0 million cubic meters of stormwater. Inspired by the intricate designs of ancient celestial constellation maps, this layout reflects the universe's intricate beauty and pays homage to Fuxi's role in developing the Bagua.

Innovative pocket gardens with thematic craters were also created among the myriad of simple verdant isles, where 27 distinct islands have been meticulously crafted into themed craters. Each hosts a variety of programs and activities, such as a children’s playground, an amphitheater, a basketball court, a tranquil water garden, a fountain, or an art installation, enriching each park with an array of exploratory and interactive experiences. Winter transforms the landscape into a picturesque arena for skiing and ice skating.

An expansive network of boardwalks
A comprehensive system of boardwalks weaves through the park, connecting the celestial isles and offering an enchanting journey into the oasis, occasionally threading through craters via tunnels or gates. Water depth by the boardwalks is kept at a safe level per regulations, eliminating the need for handrails.

An advanced water purification system

Addressing the challenge of lake and urban runoff pollution, a bio-water treatment system has been implemented. This system channels water from the lake and urban areas through a constructed wetland for purification, before reintroducing it into Lake. The design of the water purification routes is meticulously integrated with the layout of a matrix of islands and connecting boardwalks, and is capable of purifying approximately 11,500 tons of water daily. Solar panels on the roof supply energy for the bio-water purification process.

Native trees echoing ancient folklore

The selection of flora for the park draws inspiration from ancient folk songs, particularly "The Book of Songs: Chen Feng", which dates back over two millennia. Poplar and willow trees, frequently celebrated in these songs, dominate the landscape, creating a living homage to cultural heritage and fostering a deep connection with historical traditions and the natural world.

This project not only addresses environmental and social needs, but also serves as a conduit for cultural dialogue, connecting past, present, and future in a living landscape.