Shenzhen, China
Andrew Bromberg Architects along with SAA Architects have created a urban development named N1 Marine R&D that harmoniously integrates corporate elements with a civic identity and is located Shenzhen’s inner waterways in the China – EU Blue Industry Park.
Spanning 60,000 square meters, this facility focuses on maritime technologies and emerging industries, with a third dedicated to office space.
The project has been awarded a 2024 International Architecture Award by The Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design and The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies.
The focus extends to learning and civic uses, encompassing an Exhibition Center, incubation spaces, laboratories, expert community labs, and space for commerce and culture.
Additionally, incorporated are an ecological monitoring center and observation tower.
Positioned at the confluence of waterways and pedestrian flow, the project elevates private components, creating a protective canopy over public areas below.
The office component features large floor plates optimized for lab use, enhanced by a central oculus for ample daylight.
Within the canopy is a 400-meter interactive loop that offers public observation of the surroundings 80 meters below.
At the base, a port caters to maritime research vessels, while other elements seamlessly blend into the landscape and water.
The design aims for harmony between the built and natural environments, blurring distinctions between public, semi-public, and semi-private spaces.
Project: N1 Marine R&D Headquarters
Architects: Andrew Bromberg Architects with SAA Architects Pte Ltd.
Lead Architect: Andrew Bromberg
Client: Shenzhen SEZ Construction and Development Group Co., Ltd.
Photographs: Courtesy of the Architects
