Chapman Taylor's urban design vision for Jinzhan Central District in Beijing

Chapman Taylor has unveiled its concept masterplan for the Jinzhan Central District in Beijing, China—a bold urban design proposal that reimagines the city’s eastern gateway as a model of innovation, culture, and sustainable living. The 292-hectare development was commissioned by the Beijing Chaoyang District People’s Government and the Beijing Municipal Commission of Planning and Natural Resources.

Inspired by the historical waterways of the Grand Canal and Jinzhan Di, the masterplan embraces a unique cultural identity described as "Jinzhan Blooming," shaped through six key design strategies that integrate the ecological richness of the Beixiao River.

The proposal is anchored by a distinctive spatial framework—Flowing Valleys and Four Urban Cores, connected via a three-level cloud corridor. This connective spine links a Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) hub with a vibrant waterfront commercial street, seamlessly blending Jinzhan’s forward-looking character with the historic charm of Beijing.

A future-focused urban hub for industry, culture, and community

The urban design plan is guided by six strategic goals:

  1. Pioneering Industries – Driving innovation and next-generation consumer trends.
  2. Cultural Interweaving – Creating a global cultural dialogue rooted in local heritage.
  3. Transport Ecosystem – Building a smart, integrated mobility network.
  4. Architectural Modernity – Defining a contemporary design identity.
  5. Sustainable Resilience – Embracing ecological harmony and climate responsiveness.
  6. Lifestyle Evolution – Fostering dynamic, people-focused urban living.

At its core, the Jinzhan Central District aims to embody Eclectic Urbanism—a harmonious fusion of nature, culture, and commerce. With a vision that merges the serenity of water with urban vibrancy, our concept design positions the district as a sustainable and globally engaged destination for the future of Beijing.

Johnny Jiang (MArch MDA (Master of Design Arts))

Director, Shanghai and Beijing

Johnny has considerable experience in architectural design in both Germany and China and has led many important, large-scale urban design projects, including both architectural and interior design.

He plays a leading role in some of the Shanghai studio’s most significant urban design projects, and is skilled at combining innovative concepts with the requirements of China's market and the local context. Johnny’s leadership during the construction process, and his strict control of project quality, have been widely praised by clients and partners.

Johnny joined Chapman Taylor’s Shanghai studio as a Director in November 2018.

Areas of expertise:

Architecture / Interior Design / Urban Design / Masterplanning / Mixed-use

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