Zhou Yi designed a series of steel walkways and staircases at different levels, their continuity between four buildings symbolizing a protective dragon. The project repurposes a 300-year-old former residence of Xie An, an official of the Eastern Jin dynasty, integrating it into contemporary use while preserving its historical value. The visual image, its dynamic energy, and the color red connect with the project's theme of "Big Red Crayfish," creating an immersive gastronomic experience.
Big Red Crayfish by Dayi Design. Photograph by Cong Lin.
Big Red Crayfish by Dayi Design. Photograph by Cong Lin.
The iconic red layout connecting these spaces revolves around the crayfish, creating a unique culinary destination that transforms the site into a thematic and visual landmark (it also serves as a viewpoint and offers new perspectives of the nearby Dabaoen Temple), attracting visitors and photographers, who indirectly boost pedestrian traffic and the site's popularity.
The project by Dayi Design utilizes materials such as steel, glass, and LED screens that engage in a dialogue with traditional Chinese architecture. Materials are reused to preserve cultural heritage, transforming old doors into glass partitions and Taihu stones into ornamental and functional elements throughout the gardens and pathways.
Big Red Crayfish by Dayi Design. Photograph by Cong Lin.
The intervention is not only functional and aesthetically pleasing, but also addresses practical needs such as fire escape routes, shelter for transporting food, and protection from the elements.
