China (Novartis)

The design for the C4 courtyard remains light and simple to fit with the impressive architectural building designed by Elemental. Our idea was to plant the garden using Metasequoias glyptostroboides as a way to conserve the history of China’s native plants. This tree is a survivor; it has been around for 100 million years and probably grazed by dinosaurs. Therefore, the garden is an homage for such an ancient tree and an invitation to experience, learn and be aware of the captivating story that is hidden behind these ‘living fossils’.

Bee hives is one of the most efficient and functional natural structure that nature offers us. This natural geometry was an inspiration for the design of the architecture, shaped using the similar hexagonal structure of honey combs. Following this concept, 5 cellular courtyards were designed amongst the buildings, creating pockets of wildness between the structural architecture. The gardens were designed as a whole with the buildings, establishing a symbiosis between architecture and garden. The gardens becomes intimate spaces, that all have different character and densities depending on the planted vegetation (Zelkova, Magnolia, Liriodendron, Bamboo).