Shanghai Westbund Central Parcel F, sited next to Xuhui Waterfront Park, takes inspiration from Guangqi Xu (1562–1633), the district’s most significant historic figure, whose contributions to agricultural studies became the foundation for the mixed-use commercial development. As the site’s economic context shifted over time, the design evolved. While the terraced rice field at the project’s core remained constant, surrounding areas matured from a general shopping district into a high-end retail street. SWA’s landscape adapted alongside the client’s changing vision without losing its original agricultural narrative.
The design had to resolve a complex transition zone, linking the commercial center to adjacent office and residential parcels while negotiating spatial relationships with the established Xuhui Waterfront Park. Traditional agricultural forms were translated into a contemporary landscape vocabulary, requiring close coordination among a team of architects, landscape architects, an art installation consultant, and multiple layers of client and government stakeholders.
Curved stone paving required water-jet cutting at scale, and the terrace’s curved retaining wall was engineered to house an integrated water feature. To achieve an immediate sense of maturity, rice was pre-grown off-site at agricultural research facilities before planting—ensuring the field read as established from opening day.
Williams Square
For decades, Williams Square has been the walkable “living room” for Irving, Texas’s Las Colinas community. The plaza’s iconic bronze mustang sculptures, designed by artist Robert Glen, are among the state’s most iconic landscape features, speaking to the state’s identity and history.
SWA’s engagement with the plaza is longstanding, dating back to the 1...
Chase Center Entertainment District
Chase Center, the new Golden State Warriors’ arena, anchors and enlivens San Francisco’s emerging Sports and Entertainment District. Integrated along a transit corridor within a formerly industrial part of the city, this new 24/7 facility offers a venue for events of many scales as well as a central public open space that doubles as the neighborhood’s outdoor ...
Burj Khalifa
Playing on the theme of “A Tower in a Park,” this shaded landscape creates a compelling oasis of green, with distinct areas to serve the tower’s hotel, residential, spa and corporate office areas. The visitor begins at the main arrival court at the base of the tower, where the “prow” of the building intersects a grand circular court—a “water room” defined by f...
East Quarter Mixed-Use
Two neighborhoods that abut the Downtown Dallas Central Business District have been disconnected for years by derelict blocks and buildings. The East Quarter Mixed-Use development establishes a walkable retail, dining, and entertainment connection between the thriving Deep Ellum Farmer’s Market and highly programmed Arts District. The project included the pres...