combinations of red brick build new zhejiang university campus in china

in the era of globalization where cross-border flow of educational resources has become the norm, zhejiang university has proposed a strategic concept for the construction of an international campus. the project is located at the juanhu lake international science park, in zhejiang province, china, with river channels running along the east and west side, forming a natural shield around the site.

all images by zhao qiang

the new zhejiang university campus breaks away from conventional planning models with its functional zones being the key element. the project adopts the british-style ‘residential college’ as the basic framework, and establishes a functional structure of ‘college + teaching and service complex + public scientific research platform’, proposing a multi-functional model. the campus enjoys a neo-classical style in general, with each zone changing slightly, either dignified and rational, or elegant and casual, or even modern and minimalist. it is diverse yet inclusive, and not only reflects the historical depth of internationalization, but also expresses the self-confidence and sense of belonging of zhejiang university’s own culture.

fair-faced red bricks were used as the main materials for the building’s exterior wall. by constructing more than a dozen of different combinations with simple red bricks for architectural details, the design embodies a new interpretation of traditional architectural language. in addition, red brick, suitable for the temperament of campus, forms a warm and massive appearance, graceful and pure, and more importantly, inherits and carries forward the rich cultural atmosphere. the meticulous masonry and natural color tone allow the completed fair-faced brick surface to present vivid visual effects. 

project info:

name: international campus of zhejiang university

architecture office: the architectural design & research institute of zhejiang university co., ltd.

chief architects: dong danshen, lao yanqing

architects: ye changqing, chen jian, chen yu, lu ji, yang yidong, hu huifeng

location: no. 718 haizhou east road, ninghai, zhejiang, china

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