China’s State Council and Communist Party Central Committee have forbidden "over-sized, xenocentric, or weird" architecture.
The order states that public buildings should "suitable, economic, green and pleasing to the eye." The directive also bans gated communities.
Analysts said the stricter design standards mean a tighter focus on functionality in public buildings, rather than unique, iconic structures devised primarily by foreign architects. The guidelines come two months after a high-level meeting to address some of the problems that have arisen because of China’s rapid urbanization in which city dwellers rose from 18% of the population in 1978 to 56% today.
The new guidelines also encourage construction techniques that use fewer resources, like prefabricated elements, according to The New York Times. Prefabricated structures could help China reach its goals of simplified designs, while ensuring quality and reducing costs.
Related Stories
Performing Arts Centers | Jun 30, 2017
L.A.’s John Anson Ford Amphitheater might finally be ready for its close-up
The performing arts venue, nearly a century old, has undergone an extensive refurbishing.
Building Team | Jun 27, 2017
Bruner Foundation announces 2017 Rudy Bruner Award for Urban Excellence gold and silver medalists
The SteelStacks Arts and Cultural Campus in Bethlehem, Pa., receives the gold medal and $50,000.
Libraries | May 31, 2017
A year after its facelift, Boston’s Public Library is relevant again
Visitors are flocking to its brighter, connected halls, which now include retail and digital components.
Cultural Facilities | May 25, 2017
The Shed, a multi-arts center on New York’s west side, moves forward in construction and funding
The facility, designed for maximum programming flexibility, includes a massive movable shell.
Cultural Facilities | May 4, 2017
Obama Foundation reveals first look at the Obama Presidential Center
The design comprises three buildings set in the public space of Jackson Park on Chicago’s South Side.
Performing Arts Centers | Mar 6, 2017
An oval defines the Frank Gehry-designed Pierre Boulez Saal concert hall
The hall hosted its debut concert on Saturday, March 4 with a performance by the Boulez Ensemble.
Cultural Facilities | Mar 2, 2017
The Hanoi Lotus Centre will bloom from the middle of a lake
The building will act as a symbol of growth and prosperity for the city of Hanoi.
Cultural Facilities | Jan 30, 2017
Former windmill factory proposed as new ‘vibrant culture house’
The transformed building would provide space for street sports, street culture, and street art.
Cultural Facilities | Dec 14, 2016
Institutions aggressively targeting private donors to fund construction projects
Capital campaigns abound, even though government financing still plays a vital role.
Cultural Facilities | Oct 27, 2016
Zaha Hadid Architects’ Urban Heritage Administration Centre takes its design from the surrounding desert
The futuristic curves that have become a staple for ZHA-designed buildings are also on full display.
