Pastoral Substation
Public Infrastructure for WE-Me Group of Shenzhen Water Planning & Design Institute Co., Ltd.
Pastoral Substation converts a 220kV substation into an open urban space. It features solar panels, kinetic devices, and green paths, blending clean energy with eco design. Drawing from the site's industrial past and natural surroundings, it provides event venues and field zones. The project reimagines infrastructure as a shared civic asset, turning the substation from an isolated facility into a community resource.
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Pastoral Substation by Hang Chen
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Public Infrastructure by Hang Chen
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Hang Chen Pastoral Substation
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Unique Properties
Pastoral Substation reimagines a 220kV power facility in Shanghai’s Minhang District, transforming it into an ecological and educational urban space. By integrating photovoltaic installations, kinetic energy devices, and interactive landscapes, the project merges renewable energy with public engagement. The design blurs boundaries between infrastructure and nature, redefining the substation as a sustainable community asset, fostering environmental awareness and urban connectivity.
Tags
Infrastructure, Renewable Energy, Urban Regeneration, Public Space, Ecological Landscape, Sustainable Design
Production Technology
The project employs solar panels, wind-powered installations, and rainwater collection systems to enhance sustainability. Locally sourced materials like steel, concrete, and timber ensure durability and contextual integration. Passive design strategies optimize natural ventilation and daylighting, reducing energy consumption. The landscape incorporates permeable surfaces and native vegetation, creating a resilient, self-sustaining environment that blends technology with ecological consciousness.
Design Challenge
The challenge was to transform a traditionally enclosed substation into a dynamic, community-friendly space while maintaining its technical functionality. Balancing security, accessibility, and energy efficiency required innovative spatial configurations. The design overcomes these constraints by integrating controlled public access zones, interactive elements, and renewable energy solutions, redefining infrastructure as a sustainable urban asset.
Project Duration
Located in Minhang District, Shanghai, China, the project aligns with Shanghai’s sustainable urban development initiatives. The transformation supports long-term ecological integration, enhancing urban resilience and energy-conscious city planning.
Operation Flow
Visitors engage with renewable energy exhibits, interactive solar installations, and pedestrian-friendly networks. Kinetic energy pathways generate power through movement, reinforcing sustainability education. The space fosters community interaction through workshops, guided tours, and public events. By redefining infrastructure as an accessible learning environment, the project transforms a once-isolated facility into an active, inclusive urban landmark.
Research
The project explores the convergence of urban infrastructure and ecological sustainability. Through studies on renewable energy integration, community engagement, and adaptive landscape strategies, it establishes a replicable model for substation renewal. The research emphasizes low-carbon construction, multi-functional green spaces, and innovative energy use, ensuring infrastructure aligns with environmental and social needs.
Inspiration
Inspired by Shanghai’s ambition for sustainable infrastructure, the project revitalizes an industrial site into a green, interactive environment. The design integrates technological innovation with ecological strategies, drawing from the region’s agrarian and water-based heritage. By incorporating renewable energy and adaptive reuse, it envisions a future where essential infrastructure harmonizes with public life, reinforcing the city’s commitment to green urbanism.
Image Credits
Hang Chen
Project Overview
Pastoral Substation Public Infrastructure has been a Silver winner in the Engineering, Construction and Infrastructure Design award category in the year 2024 organized by the prestigious A' Design Award & Competition. The Silver A' Design Award celebrates top-tier designs that embody excellence and innovation. This award acknowledges creations that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional, reflecting the designer's deep understanding and skill. Silver A' Design Award recipients are recognized for their contribution to raising industry standards and advancing the practice of design. Their work often incorporates original innovations and elicits a strong emotional response, making a notable impact on the improvement of everyday life.
Silver Recognition
Hang Chen was recognized with the coveted Silver A' Design Award in 2025, a testament to excellence of their work Pastoral Substation Public Infrastructure.
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