Positioned along the Pearl River, Yuzhu’s landscape is shaped by the layered forces of geography, history, and industrial memory. The Yuzhu Riverfront Mixed-Use Development is organized along a north–south framework: a vibrant commercial and retail core anchors the waterfront, while the southern district is defined by ecological richness and a high-quality residential environment oriented around health, activity, and sustainability.
A defining diagonal axis cuts through the northern parcel as a direct reference to Yuzhu’s former port identity, reconnecting the waterfront as a civic stage and drawing movement into the heart of the development. Along this spine, four thematic plazas anchor the sequence, linked by a system of weathering steel lighting elements that begin as a continuous linear band and gradually dissolve into individual nodes. The progression mirrors the site’s own evolution: from a singular industrial economy to a layered and diverse urban future. Integrated with the paving design, this sequence also functions as a clear, intuitive wayfinding system throughout the district.
In the residential parcel, the landscape shifts in character, adopting an organic matrix of flowing, layered spaces that balance energy and calm. Inclusive in program and generous in scale, these environments are designed to serve all ages and draw residents into an active, connected community life.
Nanchang Xiangnan Urban Infill
Situated in the capital city of Jiangxi Province, which is known for its rich cultural and ecological resources, the Nanchang Urban Infill project strives to weave two new districts into the historical heart of the city. To the west, a tower and mall create a modern icon for Nanchang. Here, the landscape reinforces the architectural design through a fluid, con...
Heights Mercantile
In an era of one-click purchases and next-day deliveries, urban residents yearn for the once-prevalent ambiance of a lively urban environment. Heights Mercantile offers Houston an antidote. Revitalizing two acres in the heart of Houston’s historic Heights neighborhood, this low-rise, mixed-use development preserves the area’s charm while providing ...
325 5th Avenue Plaza
A new residential tower has risen across the street from the Empire State Building. As a zoning incentive, a new public plaza was included to attract and accommodate the area’s tourists as well as its diverse office and residential neighborhood. The space is defined by a clean, contemporary design composition of spaces, elements, and custom furniture meant to ...
One Uptown
Bringing a singular landscape design expression to a site featuring two buildings designed by different architects, the SWA/Balsley team worked to seamlessly integrate a variety of outdoor spaces to accommodate the mixed-use One Uptown. At the ground level, tree-lined streetscapes and bike lanes lead visitors to a coworking and dining courtyard along Burnet Ro...