Urban Helix, Changsha, the capital city of Hunan in South-Eastern China, has undergone a major infrastructural renovation and development through the idea of bringing out the trade, business, tourism via new architectural landmarks with statements. Changsha is where world-famous architects have proposed unique and experiential projects, most of which are already under construction.
Courtesy of KSP Jürgen Engel Architekten
Here we have Zaha Hadid Architects’ International Culture and Arts Centre that depicts the Pritzker-prize architect’s signature curve element. We also have the extraordinary Coop Himmelb(l)au proposing their own design for Changsha’s Grand Theatre that interacts with the existing landscape. Other architecture studios such as NEXT, and Hans Hollein & Partner have designed one of a kind statements for the major refurbishment of that particular part in South-Eastern China.
Courtesy of KSP Jürgen Engel Architekten
KSP Architecten are the next winners of the latest architecture competition and ad significant contribution to Changsha’s new archi-scape. Their Urban Helix adds to the extraordinary cityscape with its vibrant combination of purposes and also with the sculpturesque character of their building. Fascinatingly, their proposal is focused on opening up for the public, instead of taking the visitor into an enclosed space. In this way KSP’s architectural thinking becomes much more welcoming, friendly and achieves communication at different levels – visitors should enjoy the openness and attractive shape of the space surrounding them.
Courtesy of KSP Jürgen Engel Architekten
This space is formed by one single helix which has several turns in order to achieve a height of 30 m and the inhabitable space is of distance 1 km. The ramp that forms the helix is 6 meters wide and because it turns into a circular path, it offers much more than just 6 meters of space. Due to its curvaceous character, the ramp provides plentiful amenities, attractions, multi-use spaces and a variety of activities for visitors. KSP also offer a direct relationship between the urban and the natural landscape by providing people with panoramic views towards the lake Meixi. Since the ramp expands in diameter the higher it goes up, the panorama becomes wider to view and more spectacular to enjoy.
Project info:
Architects: KSP Jürgen Engel Architekten International
Location: China, Hunan, Changsha
Area: 20000.0 sqm
Year: 2014
Photographs: Courtesy of KSP Jürgen Engel Architekten
Architect in Charge: KSP Jürgen Engel Architekten
Anastasia Andreieva is an accomplished Architectural Projects Editor at Arch2O, bringing a unique blend of linguistic expertise and design enthusiasm to the team. Born and raised in Ukraine, she holds a Master’s degree in Languages from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv. Her deep passion for architecture and visual storytelling led her to transition from translation and editorial roles into the world of design media. With a keen eye for conceptual clarity and narrative structure, Anastasia curates and presents global architectural projects with precision and flair. She is particularly drawn to parametric and digital design, cultural context, and emerging voices in architecture. When I’m not analyzing the latest architectural trends, you’ll probably find me searching for hidden gems in cityscapes or appreciating the beauty of well-crafted spaces. After all, great design—like great connections—can be found in the most unexpected places. Speaking of connections, because architecture isn’t the only thing that brings people together.