Canada Wood Partners with China’s Leading Architects to Redefine Urban Landscapes
In the vast landscape of Chinese architecture, few institutions are as influential as the East China Architectural Design & Research Institute (ECADI). With a presence in 20 countries, ECADI’s work spans from the North Bund World Guest Hall to the towering heights of the Tianjin Chow Tai Fook Finance Centre. Its portfolio reads like a catalog of modern Chinese engineering achievements, encompassing projects such as the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and the Mercedes-Benz Arena. However, even industry leaders seek new horizons.
In September 2020, Canada Wood and ECADI signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at integrating their respective expertise. This partnership brings together ECADI’s vast experience in architectural design with Canada Wood’s specialized knowledge in sustainable timber construction. The collaboration is focused on developing localized building standards and construction techniques that position timber as a central material. Both parties envision a future where timber structures are not just novel but fundamental to China’s urban landscape.
Strategic Collaboration in Action
Since the MOU’s signing, Canada Wood and ECADI have embarked on several projects that push the boundaries of timber construction in China. These include the virtual design of a ten-story mass timber office building, the development of Yunnan’s Lancang Airport, and the Xi’an Taikoo Li complex. The most ambitious project to date is the Digital Jiangnan Tower in Shanghai. Set to reach 60 meters into the skyline, this tower is poised to become China’s tallest modern timber structure and a significant milestone in applying timber in high-rise construction.
Behind the scenes, ECADI has initiated a research project to explore the complexities of incorporating timber into high-rise buildings. This endeavor requires not just technical innovation but a fundamental shift in architectural thinking. To support this transformation, Canada Wood has been conducting specialized seminars on timber construction, gradually fostering a new mindset among China’s architectural elite.
Looking Forward
ECADI plans to establish a Timber Innovation Design Center focused on developing novel timber-based architectural solutions and advancing the application of timber in China’s construction industry. This initiative reflects the deepening collaboration between Canada Wood and ECADI.
The partnership between Canada Wood and ECADI marks a significant step in the evolution of sustainable architecture in China. By emphasizing timber, this collaboration aims to redefine construction practices in an industry traditionally dominated by steel and concrete. This alliance promises not only to reshape the skyline but also to set new standards in sustainable architecture. Stay tuned for further developments in our ongoing collaboration with ECADI.
