Design Process (Featured Projects) - Giselle Leung

Work was designed or developed while employed at CallisonRTKL

Silkroad Innovation Center Xi’An, China

The project is situated within XiXian New District’s startup cluster, strategically planned with both above-ground green connectivity and an underground network linked to the subway station. Positioned south of government offices, it’s among six pioneering projects. This venture aims to balance public and private interests, melding commercial and residential zones, indoor and outdoor realms, and natural and man-made components. Positioned at the core of Greater Xi’an and pivotal to transport networks, the endeavor aspires to embody the ideals of a sustainable “garden city.” Its main challenge involves seamlessly integrating park areas with urban blocks, crafting meaningful public spaces within a densely populated, multi-tower complex, while staying aligned with the city’s overarching vision.

The development envisions architecture as topography, utilizing adjacent natural resources for views, nature access, and healthy lifestyles. It balances tower efficiency with park-like ground experiences, providing choices and adaptability amid work, culture, and technology convergence. Open flexible floorplates, TOD integration, and Performance Driven Design enhance the built environment’s value. The project embodies a permeable landscape where parkland seamlessly interacts with buildings, towers rise to open up the ground for user flows, and terraced podiums form green social hubs. Biophilia, ample natural light, and views promote well-being, while thoughtful façade design prioritizes views, energy efficiency, and aesthetics.

Client China Northwest Architecture Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd.

Program

140,500 sm of office; 56,200 sm of apartment; 19,000 sm of retail and 70,000 sm of basement parking

Scope

Concept, SD, DD, CDR, CA

Status

Under Construction To be Completed in 2025

Role/Responsibilities

Principal-in-Charge

360 View

Giselle Leung Silkroad Innovative Center, Xi’An, China © [2025]

New form of urban mixed-use project should reflect the changing demands by providing authentic experiences beyond fulfilling the functional requirements of the programs, and by creating synergistic energy beyond a simple co-location of various programs

The project site next to the great expanse of park lands requires a different design approach - what are the strategies that will create a unique experience and synergy that benefits the inhabitants, the businesses and the neighboring communities?

Conventional buildings block the views to and from the park and cut any communication and access between the park and the adjacent properties

By simply lifting the buildings off the ground, new opportunities open up to not only allow views across but let air, light and access throughout site’s ground plane, while the typical tower floors are freed from the constraints of the ground

The result is a building complex where the park landscape naturally flows into the site and become the podium to provide an authentic experience at the grounds, while the urban skyline and the floor efficiencies are maintained at the tower levelsthe project site is where the flow of nature converges with that of urbanity

THE FLOW OF NATURE CONVERGES WITH THAT OF URBANITY

区域级 社区级

轴线公共空间：长5公里，控制宽度100米 U 型绿环：长3.5公里，宽度30-80米

沣河滨水空间：长3.5公里，宽度30-80米

BALANCE WITH NATURE

Xixian new development district is a proof where human-centered, ecological development project can not only balance the economic drives with the preservation of the natural resources but also that enriches the lives of the inhabitants to coexist between the man-

BALANCING MAN-MADE WITH NATURAL

Following the overall planning principles of Xixian new district, the city masterplan includes careful organization of green space networks throughout the city that ties to the Feng He ecological zones - towards a truly sustainable “garden city”. The project site’s location as the node of the intersecting the green space axes is one of the greatest opportunity as well as the challenge to the development.

CONVERGES WITH THAT OF URBANITY

ADAPTIVE DESIGN

The ratio of glazing increases towards the tops of towers where the opportunities are greatest for the views of the surrounding cityscape and the parks, while the solids on the facades decrease the overall glazing area for increased thermal performance, increased solids towards the bottom of the towers reduce unwanted glare and reflections to the pedestrians and the streets below.

BALANCING MAN-MADE WITH NATURAL

Giselle Leung

WEAVING PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION CONNECTIVITY WITH

WALKABLE GREEN SPACES

CONNECTING THE URBAN NETWORKS

Proximity to the #16 line subway station and the basement circulation network will be fully utilized by seamlessly connecting the planned spine into the site at the B1 level as an extension of well-lit and vibrant commercial and cultural environment, fulfilling the Transit Oriented Development potentials.

Eurasia International Plaza Phase III and Hyatt Regency Hotel Xi’An, China

Xi’an, a city blending modern technology with ancient heritage, embraces its deep culture and history while incorporating innovative experiences. The design integrates heritage through materials, spatial design, and a homage to historical artifacts. The site’s remarkable natural surroundings, with rivers and ecological developments, inspired architecture harmonizing with nature. Xi’an’s history as a Silk Road gateway and its role in the One Belt One Road initiative make it a meeting place for local-global interaction. The project fosters social engagement through various venues, from retail streets to tranquil retreats, aligning with the city’s essence. A reconfiguration of tower positioning enhances views, privacy, and spatial connections, forming a distinct urban pocket. Bridges connect structures, facilitating circulation, while symbolic stacking of programs creates an organic building form. The design achieves a dynamic fusion of past and present, nature and architecture in Xi’an’s vibrant landscape.

Client Shaanxi Xukun Real Estate Development Co., Ltd.

Program

161,090 sm of Mixed-use project that consists of 40,000 sm of Hyatt Regency Hotel, 15,000 sm of Retail; 111.090 sm of Executive Office; and Basement Parking

Scope

Concept, SD, DD, CDR and CA

Status

Under Construction Scheduled to be Completed in Q2 2024

Role/Responsibilities

Principal-in-Charge

TALES TOLD BY THE TWO RIVERS

Xi’an is a city where modern technology and industry intersect with the city’s ancient heritage and history, with a solid foundation in culture and history giving birth to innovation. The new, iconic experiences pay tribute to the city’s abundant legacy and historical artifacts, with meticulous attention to detail, materials, and spatial experiences aimed at bringing the deep-rooted heritage of the place to the forefront.

The Xi’an Eurasia Phase 3 project serves as the new focal point in Eastern Xi’an, in conjunction with existing and future Eurasia developments, where the confluence of the Bahe and Chanhe rivers, which have witnessed the rise and fall of dynasties and cultures over millennia, will soon witness a new chapter unfold. The project’s design concept embodies the seamless integration of seemingly opposing elements, with four key contrasting pairs: Old & New, Nature & Man, Local & Global, and Solitude & Society.

CELEBRATING THE PAST EMBRACING NEW TECHNOLOGY

MAN-MADE LANDMARKS AMONG NATURAL GIFTS

LOCAL EXPERIENCES MEET GLOBAL MINDS

Site Opportunities

Urban Stategy and Massing Evolution

The site, situated along Ouya Boulevard, is surrounded by a public green zone, the Chan He River to the east, and neighboring office, commercial, and residential blocks. The proposed scheme repositions the buildings to optimize river views, minimize overlap, and create an urban pocket on Ouya Blvd. It also isolates the hotel tower to enhance the connection with Eurasia Phase 1, and bridges and connectors facilitate easy access and circulation across the site, with a central plaza where pedestrian flows converge.

Shajing Wanfeng Urban Revitalization and Coastal Mall

Shenzhen, China

This is an urban revitalization project that covers approximately 590 hectares of land.  The project aims to cultivate “Happiness and Co-prosperity in a Low Carbon, Human-centric Community.” Although located in a remote area, the site’s position between the city center and an upcoming Airport Hub offers a chance to create a gateway. Challenges include deserted factories, scattered natural resources, and a neglected drainage ditch causing issues. The strategy involves connecting natural resources, establishing pedestrian-friendly walkways, and considering health aspects. The zoning plan prioritizes tranquil residential areas close to nature, surrounded by facilities showcasing future living. A green loop connects natural features through dedicated green setbacks, with an elevated walkway promoting a vehicular-free community. Jogging trails and bike paths reduce emissions, while human-centric sidewalks integrate canopies and trees for comfort and safety. The neglected drainage ditch is revamped with ecological design, encouraging community engagement. The project harmonizes urban development, sustainability, and well-being.

Client Coastal Group

Program

Urban Revitalization of Phase 1 and Phase 2 including a total of planned area of 5,960,300 sm.  Project consists of Residential, Retail Mall, Retail Street, Office, and Industrial Park

Scope

Masterplan of Phases 1 and 2; Concept, SD, DD, CDR, CA of Phase 1

Status

Masterplan Completed Phase 1 Under Construction and Scheduled to be Opened on June 18, 2024

Role/Responsibilities

Principal-in-Charge

Giselle Leung

Shajing Wanfeng Urban Revitalization and Coastal Mall © [2024] CallisonRTKL

A GREEN CIRCUIT CONNECTS PEOPLE TO NATURE

Zoning was established with the tranquilized residential zone closest to natural resources at the north and industrial park near various reservoirs at the south. In the middle, where the “gateway” boulevard connects downtown to the new Airport Hub, lays the supportive amenities that showcase the lifestyle of this iconic development.

A green loop s created by dedicated green setbacks to link all the natural resources together. The green circult is broken down into walkable sections with parks, multi-level gardens, event spaces, sport grounds, and F&B and commercial spaces introduced as nodes of attractions. It serves to tie people and nature together

ZONING CONCEPT

Connect three districts.

GREEN LOOP

Connect urban public space and ecological green space to create a 10km ecological green loop in Wanfeng.

DESIGN STRATGY

One core, three bridges

HUMAN-SCALED AND BIKE-FRIENDLY PEDESTRIAN SYSTEMS FOR A ZERO EMISSION COMMUNITY

Human-centric design is implemented into the designing of the sidewalks. Canopies and arcade are incorporated for rain protection. Trees are planted for shadings. Bike and Pedestrian are smartly segregated for safety consideration. Jogging trails and bike paths are integrated into the green loop and elevated walkway to promote health and wellbeing and to reduce carbon emissions.

Creating a Comfortable and People’s Friendly Walking Experience

Arcade and incorporated for rain protection and trees are planted for shading

Different style of jogging trails are designed to suit people needs

Networks of Cycling Paths have been incorporated to cater for zero emission commute to exercise and training routine.

ELEVATED WALKWAYS AND DECKS FOR A VEHICULAR FREE PEDESTRIAN SYSTEM

Strengthen the connection of various program through the second-floor

SAFE AND VEHICULAR-FREE ELEVATED DECK AND WALKWAYS PROMOTING A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

Elevated walkway network are weaved into the site plan connecting various parcels, green loop, parks and other natural resources, civic plaza, subway and transportation hub. together.

COMMERCIAL BRIDGE GREEN BRIDGE

It is convenient for people to gather, increase interaction.

INDUSTRIAL BRIDGE

A multi-functional sharing activity platform integrating information interconnection, talent exchange, product interactive display, etc.

A green bridge connecting Dazhongshan Cultural Park, Parent-Child Park and Wanfeng Sports Park.

CONSIDERATION ON HEALTH AND WELLBEING OF PEOPLE

Event spaces, cafes, breakout kiosks, sports ground, resting and lookout areas area are strategically integrated to create point of interest that encourage people to walk and interact with the outdoor.

DUAL CORES AND FOUR CENTERS

Create a 5-minute neighborhood life circle and enrich the community life experience.

Giselle Leung Shajing Wanfeng Urban Revitalization and Coastal Mall © [2024] CallisonRTKL Work

CallisonRTKL

IMPROVEMENT OF THE DRAINAGE CANAL

Enhancement of the drainage ditch with various treatment and restoration methods, including, ecologically and manmade solutions and executions.

MixC One in Tongzhou

Beijing, China

The site’s unique location, at the convergence of commercial areas, metro lines, and green spaces, serves as the inspiration for a design that harmoniously blends nature, community, and people. The key objective is to establish seamless connections through a sunken plaza that links green belts and transportation hubs, facilitating easy movement from underground spaces to rooftop gardens. The design incorporates iconic urban spaces and nature-centric elements, inviting individuals back into the city while optimizing natural light and green environments. This project places a strong emphasis on promoting outdoor activities for well-being, emphasizing sustainability with reduced carbon emissions and energy-efficient materials, and enhancing comfort and well-being through biophilic design principles. The result is a vibrant and harmonious urban environment that embodies green ecology and sustainable urban integration, with a building design that seamlessly integrates with its surroundings and enhances the connection to nature within its interior spaces.

Client

Beijing Runhe Xintong Real Estate Development Co., Ltd.

Program

95,000 sm of retail area

Scope

Masterplan for Land Acquisition; Concept, SD, DD, CDR, CA

Status

Under Construction Planned to be Opened Q3 2024

Role/Responsibilities

Co-Principal-in-Charge

Giselle Leung

Open up the golden commercial corner to the COMMUNITY A multilevel plaza that connects underground to aboveground PULLING PEOPLE TOGETHER

With the unique geographical location of the site, commercial space, metro lines, and green belts all converge together. The goal is to let the nature and people come together. A design solution that is catered for people and connects to nature and community.

Connection with the green belts and the transportation hub via a multilevel sunken plaza Agent analysis to simulate how people move through the space and strategically place Interesting node to attract foot-traffic and encourage movement

MAP

Multiple sites are connected to the metro and the transportation hub through the project.

A multilevel sunken plaza brings natural lights and green to the metro level.

Layout was enhanced with the help of Agent Analysis simulation

A connection is created to bring people all the way up to the urban living room (cantilever glass box) and the landscape roof which look back to the City.

1 SITE CONNECTION

2 BUILDING CONNECTION

4 AGENT COUNT

3 INTERIOR CONNECTION

Giselle Leung

CONNECTING THE COMMUNITY VERTICAL LINKAGE

Connect people from underground to the rooftop Create interest points that tie back to the city Bring the green up Filter the natural light down

MixC One in Tongzhou, China © [2024] CallisonRTKL Work was designed or developed while employed at CallisonRTKL

Giselle Leung

CONNECTING WITH

NATURE GREEN ROOF & NATURAL LIGHT

A designation that one connects back to the city with iconic urban living room and terracing roof top gardens. Nature as an antidote for stress, outdoor activities in a safe environment that promote good health and well-being.

Giselle Leung

Shading panels are strategically placed to reduce heat gain and energy loss.

MixC in Taiyuan Taiyuan, China

The original site allocation included office, hotel, residential, and retail spaces, totaling 1.2 million SM. The project’s design aimed to establish a visual link between the Fen River and the West Mountain, necessitating the connection of an elevated park hosting civic buildings to the community and the government office complex towards the West. Despite the challenge of government land involvement, the proposal successfully realized this concept. The central parcel features a seven-story shopping mall with two basement levels. The symbolic central access that connects Fen River to West Mountain is maintained.  The unique challenge was harmonizing a civic-building aesthetic within a retail setting. This was achieved by aligning exterior massing with the interior racetrack circulation, creating a dynamic 360-degree movement. The civic-building complex is connected to the retail mall by bridges that span across the street and bringing foot traffic in via different levels. The top floors are terraced back with views towards Fen River and the city beyond. Notable project highlights include the grand canopy and a central shifting atrium. Terraces under the canopy emphasize the east-west axis, humanizing the scale, and the glass canopy becomes an iconic element with creative lighting.

Client China Resources Land (Taiyuan) Co., Ltd.

Program

On a combined 167,000 sm site, MxC in Taiyuan is a mixeduse development with a gross building area of 1,429,700 sm.  It comprises of 295,700 sm of above-grade retail, 30,000 sm of underground retail, 75,000 of hotel, 261,000 sm Class A office tower, and 421,000 sm residential

Scope

Master planning, ARCH Concept, SD, DD, CDR and CA

Status

Completed September 15, 2018

Role/Responsibilities

Project Manager

TAIYUAN AUDACITY

The Project is the gateway to the new district and our goal is to link the project with current and future city developments. There are two major axis in terms of the city planning. One is the center axis which links the civic center to the north to the future development to the south; and the other is East-West axis which completes the loop of the city green belt (the two parks plus more).

Inspired by both by the Fen River and the Taihang Mountains, the MixC in Taiyuan Project gives a new retail experience as it offers a symbiotic relationship between “the urban edge”, “the riverfront,” and “natural landscape.” Free flowing and at times can change into several different states, the natural characteristics of the river and mountains are translated as modern interpretations throughout the architecture and public space design paying homage to the site and the majestic city’s natural beauty. Bold architecture that is inspired by movement and eclectic design mixed with unexpected applications of colors, details, and other elements create an unparalleled retail destination.

THE GRAND TERRACE & STAGE FOR THE ARTISTIC SCENERY

THE GATEWAY

ON THE CENTRAL AXIS between OLD & NEW CITY between MOUNTAIN & RIVER

THE CENTRAL AXIS is reinforced by the acceding atrium that leads people up

THE “WATERFALL” that cascades down connects the “MOUNTAIN” and the “RIVER”

The GRAND CANOPY hovers over the cascading terrace that overlooks the RIVER and the CITY beyond

OBSERVATION POD

An

is located at the end of the accending atrium with a view out to WEST MOUNTAIN

The ACCENDING ATRIUM and the GRAND SKYLIGHT bring natural light deep into the space

Secondary ATRIUM are created to highlight the NODES at the main circulation for better orientation

Xiamen Joy City Xiamen, China

“Xiamen Joy City” is a notable development in Xiamen, China, situated in the Jimei New Town Xinglin Bay CBD area. It artfully merges traditional and modern architectural elements, preserving cultural heritage while appealing to a contemporary audience. The rooftop is transformed into accessible spaces, program for various activities and offering breathtaking coastal panoramic views.

Distinct from conventional shopping centers, the layout features a circular path and a central “Coastal Lighthouse” housing boutique retail. An impressive “Seaside Joy Atrium” inspired by ocean waves adds uniqueness. The design incorporates Jimei-style red brick facades and a semi-arch entrance with captivating lighting.

The west side seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor spaces, creating terraced shops with photo opportunies. The project includes distinctive areas like the “Seaside Market” and a cultural exploration gallery, offering a comprehensive mix of shopping, living, and cultural experiences in a dynamic urban environment.

Client Grandjoy Holdings Program

100,100 sm of Joy City branded Mall and 55,000 sm of basement parking

Scope

Competition

Status

Completed

Role/Responsibilities

Principal-in-Charge

Giselle Leung

Jiageng architecture features a unique roof form which is the inspiration of the architectecture design for this mall. “The roof is not seriouse anymore:” it is a element that one can interact.

ROOF is a playful landscape ... ... for to you to DISCOVER

Giselle Leung

Design Logic

An exaggerated roof form is created through a process of ‘subtraction.’ The mass is sculpted by the curved roof profile to generate ‘landings’ at various levels that are connected to and interact with the functions of the space inside.

Giselle Leung

Wuhan Optic Valley Zhong Xin Cheng Project Wuhan, China

This project is a vital part of the Guanggu central city development, situated between Baozixi park, the civic center, Xinyuexi park, and new commercial areas. It includes two office towers, shopping malls, street retail, and three apartment towers. The goal is seamless integration with the city’s development, emphasizing two main axes: one aligned with the civic center and another connecting parks through the Park Bridge. The architecture draws inspiration from Wuhan’s lakes and prioritizes sustainability, including natural ventilation and energy-saving features. Building facades blend with the environment, with the Joy City mall featuring a double skin system and integrated lighting. Office and residential towers incorporate sustainability elements like metal panels and sky gardens.

Client COFCO Property Development Program

140,000 sm of Joy City branded shopping mall, 14,185 sm of street retail, 49,500 sm of office buildings and 95,000 sm of apartment

Scope

Competition

Status Completed

Role/Responsibilities Principal-in-Charge

Wuhan Optic Valley Zhongxincheng Project

Giselle Leung

THE GREEN LOOP

The project site is part of the new Guanggu central city development. It is adjacented to Baozixi park on the west, the civic center on the north, Xinyuexi park on the east and new commercial projects on the south. The program requires 2 office towers, a shopping mall, street retail and 3 apartment towers.

It is the gateway to the new district and our goal is to link the project with current and future city developments. There are two major axis in terms of the city planning. One is the center axis which links the civic center to the north to the future development to the south; and the other is East-West axis which completes the loop of the city green belt (the two parks plus more).

URBAN AXIS

The civic axis matches the circulation of the shopping center. East-West axis is emphasized by the Park Bridge, which not only brings the park environment to the project, but also links to the adjacent properties. Park Bridge runs at L-2 and L-3 to provide “Multi- Level access”.

The architectural concept is an extension of “Park Bridge” concept which was inspired by the Wuhan landscape, especially its lakes. The building massing expresses the fluidity of the lake and “Park Bridge”, The façade facing the civic center is treated as a part of the civic building with its bold and rigid shape while other facades are designed in a more organic way to blend in with its nature surroundings. The building design is also intgrated with sustainable design considering natural ventilation, building orientation, energy saving and sun shading.

Wuhan Optic Valley Zhongxincheng Project © [2017] CallisonRTKL Work was designed or developed while employed at CallisonRTKL

Giselle Leung

NATURE INSPIRED FACADE LIGHTINGS

The façade metal panel design is mimicking the park environment creating that shimmering effects when lights penetrate the leaves in a park environment. The façade lighting design concept echoes the natural changing ambiance of the park environment throughout the seasons. The lighting design is incorporated into the metal panels. It will be controlled by a computer generating images from nature, seasonal and festive ceremony themes to create dynamic visual effect.

Wuhan Optic Valley Zhongxincheng Project © [2017] CallisonRTKL Work was

Giselle Leung

Giselle Leung

Giselle Leung