West Lake University

Hangzhou, Zhejiang Client: HENN

HENN’s design for the Westlake campus addresses a range of scales and needs, from individual buildings to its urban-scale master plan. The site is defined as a series of concentric rings that organize the campus both physically and conceptually: the Academic Loop, the Water Loop, and the Living Loop.

The campus is encircled by a tranquil waterway, bridged by 12 pedestrian and vehicular paths. Like spokes on a wheel, the bridges connect the campus to the verdant Living Loop where freestanding residential buildings for students and faculty are located. Surrounded by shops, restaurants, and sports facilities, the outer ring transforms the campus into a bustling city.