Header: Archie
Chongqing’s Liangjiang New Area is now home to a bold new project that reimagines urban living called City of Inspiration. Developed by PowerChina Real Estate and designed by Fun Connection, this vibrant complex connects commercial and community spaces while drawing from the city’s rich cultural history. With lead designer Tim Zhang at the helm, the project reflects a contemporary take on oriental aesthetics, bringing together architecture, landscape, and interiors in a way that invites both locals and visitors to engage with the space in fresh and exciting ways.
Reimagining the facade with contemporary design
Architecture plays a key role in defining a neighborhood’s character, and the transformation of the City of Inspiration’s sales center was designed with that in mind. The facade takes cues from Chongqing’s architectural heritage, focusing on Yuelai culture.
Red brick, used as a nod to the past, was reinterpreted with modern materials and techniques to create a textured, layered aesthetic. The contrast between brick, glass, and metallic details gives the structure a contemporary edge while still maintaining a connection to the city’s history. Graphic window decals on the street-facing side and 3D geometric elements on the inner facade add depth. At the same time, arched metal mesh details create a semi-transparent effect, blending the old with the new in a way that feels natural and inviting.
Designing for experience: A space that evolves with its community
City of Inspiration spans four floors, each crafted to enhance people’s interactions with the space. The ground level is dedicated to immersive retail experiences, featuring art installations, themed displays, and interactive elements that invite visitors to explore. Lush greenery and sculptural seating arrangements create inviting gathering spaces, making the commercial area feel like a natural extension of the surrounding community.
The second floor introduces a mix of cultural and lifestyle elements like cafés, bookstores, and art spaces designed to encourage lingering. This level also integrates practical amenities like dining halls and wellness clinics, reinforcing the project’s commitment to everyday livability. Higher up, the third and fourth floors continue the theme of culture and well-being, with curated spaces for workshops, art exhibitions, and social events. By layering commercial and cultural experiences, Fun Connection has created a dynamic environment where business and community life intersect perfectly.
Bringing stories to life with public art
One of the most engaging aspects of City of Inspiration is its playful cat-themed sculpture series, which adds a touch of whimsy to the urban landscape. Developed as part of the project’s identity, these installations depict different moments in a cat’s day; lounging in the sun, fishing by a pond, or exploring the city. Made from durable materials like electroplated stainless steel and resin, these sculptures act as visual markers throughout the space, sparking curiosity and interaction among visitors of all ages.
Public spaces with character
Beyond the buildings, the project extends into the public realm with carefully curated lighting and landscape design. Custom seating areas with integrated lighting elements create cozy corners for relaxation, while warm-toned canopy lights and tree-mounted fixtures enhance the overall ambiance. Water features, sculptural elements, and soft, layered lighting create a space that feels welcoming and vibrant day and night.
City of Inspiration is a reimagined urban experience that respects Chongqing’s cultural roots while embracing contemporary design. With a thoughtful approach to materials, space planning, and artistic details, Fun Connection has crafted a destination that fosters a sense of place, bringing people together in a fresh and familiar way.
Project info
Project Name: City of Inspiration
Location: Chongqing, China
Owner: PowerChina Real Estate
Opening Date: September 28, 2024
Commercial Scene Creation & Design: Fun Connection
Lead Designer: Tim Zhang
Landscape Design: Guangzhou S.P.I Design Co., Ltd.
Interior Design: Chengdu Desmood Design Consultants Co., Ltd. / Chongqing Research Commune Design Co., Ltd.
Facade Design: Fujian Huarong Group Co., Ltd.
Lighting Design: Shanghai Brandston Partnership Inc.
Signage Design: Chongqing Chuanyi Automation Co., Ltd.
Construction Company: Chongqing Longxing Real Estate Development Co., Ltd.
Civil & Steel Structure Construction: China SINOHYDRO BUREAU 10 Co., Ltd.
Facade Construction: Chongqing SULON Construction Co., Ltd.
Photographer: Archie
