Architects: ATENO
Area: 471 m²
Year: 2023
Photography: Sicong Sui
Manufacturers: Red Fair-faced concrete
Lead Architects: Troy Sun
Design Team: Keqin Cao & Chenni Zhu & Zhipan Ma
Clients: Hai Tian Dong Hua Investment Co., Ltd
City: Xiamen
Country: China
The renovation of Wuyuanwan Subway Station by ATENO in Xiamen transforms the space into a theatrical urban node. Completed in 2023, the design draws inspiration from Minnan red brick architecture, using contemporary techniques and red raw concrete panels. The project integrates local culture and modern aesthetics, creating a dynamic and artistic environment that enhances daily urban transit.
Subway stations are crucial urban nodes, linking daily activities and spaces. The Wuyuanwan Subway Station renovation by ATENO enhances this connection, transforming the station into a theatrical space where urban stories unfold.
This space is redefined not only as a transportation node but also as a narrative-rich environment. It integrates local expressions, fostering new connections and cultural exchanges among commuters.
The design is inspired by Minnan red brick architecture, using contemporary techniques to reinterpret local elements into the station’s characteristics. The result is a series of continuous waves forming a red gulf stream.
The materials used include a new type of red raw concrete panel, specially formulated to embody both contemporary and local traits. The design presents these elements in a simple yet impactful manner.
Using natural stone posed engineering challenges, so the design employs 3D modeling technology to modularize the water-clear panel wave form. This approach allows for artistic freedom while forming a seamless curved surface, enhancing the station’s aesthetic appeal.
Curves play a significant role, reflecting ATENO’s philosophy towards product design. The architectural space of the subway entrance is integrated with these curves, creating a dynamic environment.
Artist Su Wu’s mask sculptures are featured in the design. These masks reflect the interplay between individual and collective identities, altered by changing light and the surrounding environment. This aligns with the design concept, symbolizing the ever-changing nature of urban relationships.
Local contemporary values are central to the project. Designer Sun Jianhua aimed to break away from conventional subway entrances, creating a space that showcases residential living scenes and connects with Wuyuan Bay Station’s characteristics. This reflects a deep exploration of local values. The project strengthens the urban landscape, transforming the subway station into a cultural and artistic hub that enhances daily urban transit.
Project Gallery
Project Location
Address: Huli District, Xiamen, Fujian 361016, China
Location is for general reference and may represent a city or country, not necessarily a precise address.
