Sunshine 100 Wenzhou Centre in Wenzhou, China, was given a high commendation for Retail and Leisure International (RLI) Future Project at Global RLI Awards 2017.

Surrounded by Ou River, this mixed-use development comprises three zones: Zone A contains a hotel, serviced apartments and offices; Zone B is for retail and Zone C features high-end residences. Aedas is commissioned to design Zone B and the public open spaces along the river.

Aedas' Global Board Directors Christine Lam and David Clayton designed a retail village that maximises views and resources offered by the river – water elements are brought into the core of the retail and connects the whole development. The design takes full advantage of the waterfront location and combines cultural elements to create a symbol for the site. The retail positioning is manifested in the architectural style of four distinctive building clusters, including a Romance Garden (wedding-related programmes), CinePark (IMAX cinema and VR experience facilities), Sunshine Adventure (kids and family activities) and Cultural Street (F&B terraces and event spaces). Each themed cluster forms a strong individual identity and brings a range of unique experience to retail customers. The Sky Walk on the roof, formed by a large number of interactive pocket spaces to create an iconic tourist destination, reconnects the four clusters to form a coherent development.

The public open spaces along the river connects different functional programmes. A sunken central courtyard is located at the heart of the retail development and is the core public event space connecting the north-south axis to the river-side promenade. A cultural plaza provides a huge public open space facing the promenade, bringing water features towards the retail development. It enhances the circulation and activities between the retail streets and the river. A waterfront plaza, alfresco dining, music fountain, floating water stage, waterwall and amphitheatre seating allow for public activities. Landscape elements including greenery and decking are integrated into the drop-off area and extend towards the central sunken plaza to provide a better arrival experience and connect the basement with the retail area above.

Organised by UK magazine RLI, this year marks the 12th anniversary of the Global RLI Awards which pay tribute to the best of the best retail designs.