Xiushui Street and Ningbo’s cultural district reopen following major urban regeneration
Last month, Xiushui Street and its surrounding cultural district in Ningbo, China, officially opened to the public following a two-year regeneration project across the 57,300 m² site. Benoy was commissioned by Haishu Investment & Development Group to provide masterplanning and conceptual architectural design services, working alongside China Merchants Shekou, Tongji Urban Planning & Design Institute (Shanghai), Ningbo Urban Planning & Design Institute, and The Architectural Design & Research Institute of Zhejiang University.
Xiushui Street is located in the heart of Haishu District’s old town, an area renowned for its preserved historic street network and more than 50 heritage buildings dating back to the late Qing Dynasty. Prior to regeneration, the district suffered from ageing buildings, outdated infrastructure, and a high level of vacancy, requiring a sensitive balance between heritage conservation and urban revitalisation.
The design approach began with detailed site studies and building-by-building assessments, evaluating architectural style, structural condition, age and typology. The design intent focused on retaining the authenticity of the historic fabric while improving living conditions and introducing new cultural and commercial vitality.
Guided by the principles of, ‘Conservation, Inheritance, Revitalisation, and Innovation,’ the masterplan establishes a mixed-use cultural district integrating themed retail, cultural venues, immersive performances, boutique accommodation, and creative industries. The natural water system of Xiushui Street serves as a unifying thread throughout the development, connecting the district’s heritage with contemporary urban life.
Three key strategies shaped the design: conserving the traditional ‘Five Main Streets, Three Lanes, Two Zones and Multiple Nodes’ urban structure; celebrating the district’s defining characteristics, including water, courtyards, bridges, and historic residences; and restoring, re-purposing, and introducing new buildings in a way that respects the historic setting.
Since opening, the district has welcomed a range of flagship cultural venues and events, successfully translating the design vision into a vibrant destination and establishing a new benchmark for heritage-led regeneration in Ningbo.
