This 3.2km section of Shanghai Huangpu Riverfront connection project covers about 18 hectares. With "return the river to the people" as the core goal, the previously closed industrial shoreline is transformed into continuous public open space with cycling, jogging, and walking paths.
The design features cycling (4m, colored asphalt), jogging (2.5m, synthetic track), and walking paths (meandering closest to water). The three paths intersect at key nodes, forming small plazas and viewing platforms.
Sponge city design is integrated throughout: 65% permeable paving, 8,000㎡ of rain gardens, 2,500m³ underground storage. Monitoring shows 85% annual runoff control and 60% non-point source pollution reduction, effectively easing municipal drainage pressure.
Five river-view pavilions are embedded along the route, spaced 600 meters apart. Each provides drinking water, restrooms, vending, first aid, and seating. Prefabricated steel structures of only 80㎡ each integrate modestly into the riverfront landscape.
Plant selection prioritizes native Yangtze Delta species, creating a complete ecological sequence from aquatic to terrestrial. Submerged plants improve water quality, emergent plants stabilize banks, and waterfront woodlands provide bird habitats. Bird species increased from 17 to 38 after completion.
A community-participatory urban farm of 1,200㎡ is set in a wider riverfront section. Citizens can adopt planting boxes, experiencing the full cycle from seeding to harvest. Regular nature education classes and family planting activities connect urban residents with the land.
After the connection, daily foot traffic surged from under 500 to 12,000. Surrounding property values increased 15% due to improved environment. Commercial vitality along the route notably improved. Named one of Shanghai's "Top 10 Public Heart Projects," it became a model section of the 45km Huangpu River connection.
| Culture
Regional global port stronghold, Kuwait Smart Center and Future Living District
| Education
Future-oriented educational space — breaking traditional classroom boundaries for a flexible learning community
| Commercial
A corporate headquarters where nature and technology coexist, with courtyard layout for eco-office environment
| Urban Renewal
Industrial heritage revitalization — transforming an abandoned steel mill into a creative industry hub