In the heart of Guizhou province lies China’s Forest City: Guiyang. Nestled on the banks of the Nanming River, today’s Guiyang is a vibrant metropolis poised to play a significant role in the rapid development of inland China. The Nanming Riverfront Cultural Central Business District Master Plan, led by SOM, leverages this potential and proposes Guiyang as the gateway to Western China.

The Nanming Cultural CBD open space will provide a state-of-the-art pedestrian experience marked by memorable spaces that celebrate Guiyang’s natural assets and historic heritage, and that captivate and congregate residents and tourist alike. A network of public spaces that range from urban to natural settings, will connect neighborhoods, foster vibrant communities, and provide a continuous yet diversified riverfront experience.

The Nanming CBD will address sustainability at every scale of development, from the street and building level to district and city-wide approaches. The new city center will continue to integrate the unique karst topographical features of the region and will activate them as recreational spaces for the city. The plan will also leverage from the topographic conditions the collect and treat rainwater runoff, using bio-filtration and infiltration strategies.

Away from industrial remains, the new CBD will be home to a new generation of Guiyang residents, and offering a healthy lifestyle with opportunities to live, work, and play. It will also attract young professionals and innovators interested in living in an environment with a creative mix of open space, commercial, and cultural amenities.