Qianbanshi

Did you ever imagine a bustling district transforming into a tranquil haven? Qianbanshi, once the heart of Qianmen East, stands as a testament to this remarkable change. Only a short walk from iconic landmarks like Tiananmen Square and Chang’an Avenue, Qianbanshi was once a dense neighborhood of traditional courtyard houses. These houses, known as Siheyuan, fell into disrepair and became overcrowded as Beijing’s population exploded. They were even called “Da-zayuan”, or messy dwellings. But Qianbanshi’s story takes a turn towards revitalization. Architect Kengo Kuma spearheaded a project to rejuvenate the area. The goal was to create an open community with a mix of offices, homes, shops, hotels, and restaurants. The historic Siheyuan weren’t demolished. Instead, they were carefully renovated. Each wooden column and beam was dismantled, repaired, and reassembled by skilled local carpenters. The renovation incorporated modern elements like glass curtain walls and aluminum screens, while respecting traditional designs. The aluminum screens, assembled like a jigsaw puzzle, form an organic pattern inspired by “Huagechuang”. This traditional Chinese lattice pattern is often seen in windows and doors of older buildings. Qianbanshi now represents a harmonious blend of old and new. It demonstrates how to meet the demands of a modern urban environment while preserving historical charm. Even Kengo Kuma’s Beijing office is located within this revitalized space. Qianbanshi invites you to witness this unique transformation, where history whispers amidst modern innovation.