Dutch architectural firm MVRDV has just announced the completion of its ‘Idea Factory’?an adaptive reuse project that repurposed a disused old factory in Shenzhen into an office building and a creative hub. The development in Shenzhen’s urban village of Nantou included the restoration and strengthening of the existing structure to fit its new purpose as an office building, and greening the roof and opening it for the public.
© Xia Zhi
 
Courtesy of MVRDV
Moreover, the original facade was replaced with the envelope set back to create open loggias around the building. Idea Factory’s green rooftop comprises a bamboo landscape formed in a maze-like navigation style. It accommodates a range of activities and amenities that will definitely give life back to the abandoned historic neighborhood. © Xia Zhi
Courtesy of MVRDV
MVRDV’s project is part of a series of renovations by China-based Vanke Development with the goal to transform the village of Nantou into a cultural and creative hub.
“The Idea Factory shows us the wealth of possibilities offered by buildings that some may think are ‘dilapidated’ or beyond their useful lifespan. Not only were we able to make use of this existing structure, we intensified its use ? adding an extra floor ? and wove it into the public realm of Nantou with its green and public rooftop. It shows that the ‘hyper-new’ city of Shenzhen is entering its phase of reusing and renewing old bui...