Laguarda.Low Architects Designs Luxury Retail Centre In China
Thaihot Plaza is orientated to various transit modes and is conveniently located near a growing residential and commercial district.
Laguarda.Low Architects has designed a new retail development in central Fuzhou, China. Located at a major intersection in central Fuzhou, Thaihot Plaza is a striking, new 1.4 million-square-foot retail centre consisting of a six-storey luxury shopping mall to the south, and a large public plaza with three levels of outdoor shops and restaurants to the north.
“We are excited and honoured to have designed this destination retail and commercial complex. In this large-scale project, we sought to create a luxurious yet inviting environment, offering convenience, comfort, and lifestyle amenities for shoppers and visitors alike,” said John Low, Principal at Laguarda.Low Architects.
Thaihot Plaza is orientated to various transit modes and is conveniently located near a growing residential and commercial district, where shoppers will arrive either by foot or automobile. Amenities at the complex include a fully automated fountain with synchronized lighting and music for special water shows, an IMAX theatre and a variety of restaurant options.
The mall’s interior.
The indoor and outdoor programmes complement each other and offer a range of environments for a modern and sophisticated shopping experience. The outdoor plaza serves as the central social space of the development. Three levels of shops and restaurants surround the expansive open-air space with views of the surrounding city. Contiguous glass storefronts, wide stairs with integrated lighting, and a large LED display above the mall entrance promote activity throughout the space and create a dynamic environment.
A curvilinear skylight with horizontal and vertical glazed surfaces covers the grand atrium of the indoor mall and fills the all six levels with natural light throughout the day. Above the transparent and delicate glass volume, a dynamic metal skin wraps the building. Top grade natural and manufactured materials were used in both the interior and exterior of the mixed-use complex, creating an environment of luxury experience for shoppers. Granite stone paving and facades, aluminium framed storefronts with glass canopies, glass and stainless steel railings, and red clay tile and zinc are woven into a beautiful and unique design aesthetic.
