International Scientific Innovation Center

Zhejiang University in Hangzhou is establishing a new science campus, the International Scientific Innovation Center, in the Xiaoshan district on the southern bank of the Qiantang River. The site extends across three plots that are separated by wide roads. A plaza with three crystalshaped buildings forms the center of the new university site. The plots are linked via landscaped pedestrian bridges that unite them in a coherent campus. Each area has its own park. A circular canal interconnects all three sections and widens out into a large basin at the plaza. Similar to the existing campus of Zhejiang University, the university buildings within the plots are arranged around a central green axis. The crystal-shaped buildings on the plaza and at the top ends of the three parks feature prism-like, faceted glass facades through which people can catch a glimpse of university life. All the other buildings are less conspicuous in their design. In addition to the university buildings, an infrastructure is being created that includes halls of residence, shops, restaurants, and an office campus. The buildings along the parks are up to 30 meters tall. The buildings in the second row are up to 45 meters tall, making them shorter than the Water Museum located in the immediate neighborhood. The three campus sites form separate construction phases that will be completed sequentially and will function as standalone facilities.