Taigu Design has partnered with CEIBS Shenzhen Campus to develop an educational centre within the Greater Bay Area. This collaboration sets the stage for an innovative educational landscape, paving the way for future generations.

The Qianhai Free Trade Centre in Shenzhen is located within the Ma Wan area and stands as a landmark in the Qianhai district – the campus location contributes to the development of a high-end education industry chain in Shenzhen. Its low-density building complex comprises shared spaces, architectural forms and outdoor landscapes.

The spiral stairwell is positioned in the open atrium; the curves of the stairs create a monumental display, where light and shadow dance on the surface of the large glass zenith. The curvature and tilt of the staircase are a visual focal point in the space, showcasing its cylindrical plastic feeling and artistry in internal construction. The staircase is connected to the circular walkway on each floor, forming a seamless indoor pathway around the building’s core.

The building’s orientation spans from southeast to northwest, encircled by transparent curtain walls. Functional areas are positioned adjacent to the windows, facing the atrium from exterior to interior. Natural light permeates the rooms through the surrounding curtain walls and skylights.

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The minimalist corridor employs surface light sources and a combination of granular ceramic panel wall surfaces along geometrically stacked straight stairs to achieve a balance between minimalism and modern aesthetics – this design sets the tone for the space as students pass through.

The second floor is linked to the first floor via a conch-shaped staircase, featuring steps that range from small to large, forming a fan shape over 10 metres wide on the first floor. The stepped seating faces the semi-open cafe, which connects to an outside sunken square.  The entire dining area is designed for openness and accessibility, with consideration given to natural light and views provided by outdoor vertical vegetation.

The school has practised the spatial layout of the amphitheatre and flat classrooms for many years, continually refining them. At CEIBS Shenzhen Campus, Taigu Design adjusted in lines, lighting and tone to re-envision the teaching environment of the Shanghai headquarters while integrating Shenzhen’s distinctive character.

“Our goal is to create a multi-dimensional teaching environment that combines organic flow lines, open atria filled with natural light, and interconnected ‘internal building’ spaces that promote collaboration and comfort,” says Tan Kan, founder of Taigu Design. “We also aim to optimise movement paths while emphasising the interplay of light and shadow, tangible forms and invisible elements to seamlessly blend boundaries and facilitate effective communication through cleverly designed terraced structures.”

CEIBS stands as the only business school in China jointly established by Chinese and foreign governments, combining deep Chinese roots with a global perspective. With campuses in Zurich, Accra, Shanghai, Beijing, and Shenzhen, it has developed into a leading business school in Asia and globally.

Taigu Design
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