A student design proposal envisioning the transformation of Suzhou’s historic Cangjie Street into a vibrant cultural nexus has won the Emerging Award in the 2024 Ancient City Innovation Competition in China.
The project team – students Ayushi Desai and Jean Thomson (who travelled to Suzhou to represent the team), Guanting Wang, Sushmita K., and Zhongxuan (Joy) Qiao – competed in a pool of more than 200 international participants. Guided by supervisors Dr Dan Luo and visiting lecturer John Achari, the students presented a vision founded on three core design principles: unlocking, reviving and immersing.
The team members had applied for the opportunity and were selected from two courses within the School of Architecture, Design and Planning: Urban Design: Masterclass (UDAD7004), and Urban Design: Responsive Environments (UDAD7016).
Gaunting Wang said the competition was his first in-depth exploration of urban planning and design in China, which was incredibly exciting.
“While there are some similarities to the urban planning I have encountered in Australia, this experience also highlighted many unique features,” Gaunting said.
“In particular, the integration of Suzhou’s cultural elements into the design process offered a perspective vastly different from my prior understanding of Suzhou as merely a tourist destination. This has given me a deeper appreciation of the power of urban planning.
“The experience has greatly inspired me, encouraging me to move forward with confidence in the upcoming academic year and my future career.”
The competition, which was focused on engaging “young people with digital creativity,” aimed to compile the knowledge of young people worldwide to collaboratively investigate how new quality productivity can support the preservation of ancient cities and the coordinated advancement of urban development.
“Journey Through Time” blends the city's rich history with contemporary urban energy. Drawing inspiration from the Song Dynasty's legacy of tea culture, storytelling arts, and classical gardens, the project aims to bridge the gap between Suzhou’s historical essence and its modern urban dynamism.
Key interventions include a grand Chinese-style archway at the street’s entrance, a vibrant public plaza along the canal with festive markets and light displays, and an alley transformed into a storytelling canvas through projection technology, integrating residential and commercial elements.
The proposal revitalises Cangjie Street as a bridge between tradition and modernity, establishing it as a landmark district where culture, entertainment, and social interaction converge. It aims not only to instill cultural pride among local residents, but also to draw visitors from around the world to experience Suzhou’s unique charm in a fresh and enduring way.
discussing their project at a workshop as part of the competition.
Image credit: WUPEN
During the competition’s final workshop, students Ayushi Desai and Jean Thomson engaged extensively with local Suzhou residents, developers and stakeholders, enhancing their understanding of Suzhou’s cultural context.
Their participation culminated in an awards ceremony held during Suzhou’s vibrant lighting festival. Dressed in traditional local attire, the students presented their proposal live on television, receiving accolades for their innovative approach and cultural sensitivity.
“It’s a privilege to stand here representing our team. Our journey in this competition has been a transformative experience, rooted in our belief that design should preserve heritage, foster community, and embrace technology … It was invaluable to immerse ourselves in the city we sought to honour in our design,” reads Ayushi and Jean’s victory speech.
presenting their entry at the final review.
Image credit: WUPEN
“Our heartfelt thanks go to our supervisors, Dr Dan Luo and John Achari, and our School, for their guidance and unwavering support. We also extend our gratitude to everyone who voted for us, to our friends, and to our families, whose encouragement pushed us to give our very best.
“Thank you to the judges for recognising our work and to our fellow competitors for inspiring us along the way. This recognition deepens our commitment to creating designs that respect the past and inspire the future.”
Image credit: WUPEN
Professor Luo congratulated the students on their outstanding achievement and extended her gratitude to the School of ADP for its support.
“A special thank you to the City of Suzhou and WUPEN for hosting such an incredible event, providing our students a platform to showcase their talents on an international stage,” she said.
Emerging Award on behalf of the UQ team.
Image credit: WUPEN
The Ancient City Innovation Competition was hosted by the Suzhou Gusu District People’s Government, World Urban Planning Education Network (WUPEN), and Suzhou Historic City Group.
