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Shanghai Underpass Hubs reimagine neglected spaces beneath overpasses along the Suzhou River—a corridor integral to Shanghai’s industrial and cultural history—transforming them into dynamic public areas. Once a vital artery for trade and manufacturing, the Suzhou River and its infrastructure fueled the city’s growth but became underused as Shanghai expanded, exacerbating urban fragmentation and limiting public access.

Recognizing the need for high-quality open spaces, the project repurposes these neglected voids into multifunctional hubs for community use. The recent completion of the Sports Hub and Gathering Hub in 2024 marks the successful conclusion of the first phase, showcasing the vast potential of this citywide initiative.

Sports Hub

Nestled beneath a network of overpasses and seamlessly integrated with the scenic Suzhou River, the Sports Hub provides diverse amenities for people of all ages—including basketball courts, soccer fields, and running tracks—addressing the pressing shortage of outdoor sports facilities in this dense residential area.

Emphasizing local creativity, three popular animal themes—selected through a public voting process—are incorporated into the sports zones, infusing the space with a unique and playful identity. Connectivity is a defining feature, with multi-modal trails weaving through the hub, offering safe and accessible routes for walking, running, and cycling while linking the space to the surrounding urban fabric. Additionally, replacing impermeable concrete with native plantings and permeable surfaces mitigates flood risks and enhances urban resilience, improving both environmental sustainability and recreational appeal.

Gathering Hub

Inspired by the success of the Sports Hub, the Gathering Hub was conceived during the COVID-19 era to restore social connectivity in a post-pandemic world. This flexible venue fosters diverse interactions, encouraging public engagement. Collaboration with the transportation department redefined the relationship between pedestrians and vehicles, creating a safer, more accessible environment and transforming once-harsh infrastructure into an inviting public realm that prioritizes safety and inclusivity.

Artistic expression plays a pivotal role in shaping the Gathering Hub’s identity. Repurposed industrial materials, such as tubes, pay homage to the area’s heritage while fostering interaction with history. Works from local street artists add an authentic cultural layer, giving voice to the neighborhood’s character. Strategic interactive lighting keeps the space vibrant after dusk, ensuring its continued use as a welcoming public destination.

To support long-term sustainability, community members played an active role in creating and managing an on-site café, generating revenue for ongoing maintenance and operations. Since its opening, the Gathering Hub has expanded into neighboring green spaces, evolving into a vibrant venue for a wide range of community events. As a cultural focal point, it has drawn significant media attention and has stood as a symbol of community pride.

Overall, the Shanghai Underpass Hubs exemplify how thoughtful, resource-conscious urban design can transform neglected infrastructure into inclusive public spaces. By celebrating local heritage, enhancing connectivity, and fostering social interaction, the project not only revitalizes urban life but also serves as a model for adaptable, sustainable renewal in high-density cities worldwide.