Evolving from Moshe Safdie’s career-defining project in Montreal, this interpretation of Habitat ’67 introduces the concept of humanized urban living to a spectacular beach-adjacent site in northeast China. Building from Safdie’s ‘for everyone a garden’ paradigm, the design team took every advantage of the site’s generous open area to create a spatially and functionally rich landscape that caters to every resident.

The three main ‘courtyards’ feature unique spaces that embody Qinhuangdao’s geography and proud history. The ‘Mountain Garden’ is defined by dramatic level changes surrounding a central amphitheater. The ‘Water Garden’ features a continuous network of changing water typologies, while the ‘Exploration Garden’ serves as a sprawling landscaped playground. Orchards, floral gardens, pavilions, sports courts, and fitness areas add to the array of outdoor functions.

The project’s intensive roof terraces carry the lushness of the landscape through the stepped towers, providing addition social spaces and celebrating the views to the neighbouring beach and sea beyond.