Suzhou Logistics Centre Stage 2

A Logistics Landmark

Location
Suzhou, China
Status
Completed 2007
Client
Suzhou Logistics Centre
Type
Commercial, Transport, Logistics & Infrastructure

Suzhou Logistics Centre Stage 2 provides more than 55,000m2 of space for customs, quarantine and banking with a daily turnover of goods in excess of US$200m. The tower form, articulated as four sets of stacked boxes marks the logistics zone within the skyline and the stack of red boxes in the south east corner signals the entrance to the precinct. The graphic character of the building is reinforced by the red boxes appearing to be loosely rather than neatly stacked.

A naturally ventilated podium wraps around the tower and incorporates outdoor terraces and wintergardens with a curved glass roof linking the podium and tower. The building has achieved the highest possible sustainability rating in China which is the eqivalent of 6 Star Greenstar in Australia.

Suzhou, on China’s Grand Canal, has been an important trading center since the 6th Century. Suzhou Industrial Park is a major logistics hub providing bonded storage, customs, quarantine and banking facilities. The Logistics Centre is operational 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

The 25 storey tower form is articulated as four sets of stacked boxes, three sets silver and one red. The graphic character of the building is reinforced by the red boxes appearing to be loosely stacked, one box being twisted. 

Accessible roof extensively landscaping compliments a range of passive environmental features including green walls, operable louvres, wintergardens and balconies.Each 4 storey box is crisply detailed, with recessed dark grey glass strips separating each box. A 40%, 2mm red dot frit creates the red appearance.

A curved glass roof links the tower and podium forming a 3 storey atrium and enclosing a large processing for financial, quarantine and customs transactions. The hall is bathed in natural daylight and naturally ventilated. 

“The project demonstrates a meticulous resolution of form, structure and detailing, which collectively enhance the amenity and experience for all building users. Attention to passive environmental initiatives throughout the podium and tower has delivered the highest possible sustainability rating in China (equivalent to Australia’s six stars), an achievement that is all the more impressive given the industrial setting.”

2011

Commendation, International Architecture, AIA National Architecture Awards

JPW acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country and honours their continuing connection to lands, waters, skies and communities.

We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging – as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work; and the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation on whose land our Studio is located.