The project aims to save the abandoned Tianjin Steelworks from demolition and commercial development by transforming it into a much needed public park and historical monument to the city’s industrial past. After years of abandonment, a rich ecosystem has developed on the site, all of which will be retained and encouraged in the re-imagining of the factory. The site’s most iconic structures are also retained, whilst some derelict structures are disassembled and recycled on site. A circular ribbon walkway is installed at the heart of the landscape, passing over the factory and allowing visitors to walk on raised platforms inside the steel framework of the abandoned buildings.

Each corner of the site is reimagined for local residents, whilst exposing and retaining the memories of the factory. This includes sunken gardens and raised mounds for quiet contemplation, a network of irrigation channels and water collection troughs, allotments for local residents and a central plaza for public events. The intent is not only to bring visitors to the derelict factory and to encourage biodiversity in the city centre, but also to provide a testbed for how similar ex-industrial sites in Tianjin could be reimagined and restored for future generations to enjoy.