As the population crisis in China rise to new heights, cities expand ever outwards to accommodate for the explosive urban population. As a new effort to build ‘sustainable’ spaces, China commissioned a series of new projects that were designed to be eco-friendly and low-carbon dependent. Meixi Lake City is such a project. Designed by KPF, this large new district near Changsha is touted as one of the most sustainable cities in China after completion. KPF describes the project as follows, “Water is the primary element of design, and act as the heart and center of the master plan. A 40 hectare lake is the “central park” of the city, providing transportation and space for gardens and cultural events. Linked with a series of radial canals are eight neighborhood clusters that house 10,000 people each. Transportation by boat is highly prevalent, reducing the need for automobiles and pollution.

       The radial geometry of the city plan allows for a highly efficient transport system, reducing potential pollution and energy use. Additional sustainable strategies include gray and black water collection systems, distributed energy plants and urban agriculture. Advanced environmental engineering, pedestrian planning, cluster zoning and garden integration are all integral components of this holistic design.”

         While the project is generally considered under development, due to its long development period, on-and-off construction cycles, and over the top budgeting, the project has received many  criticism both within China and internationally. Many of the residential towers are complete; however, due to the high technological demand by the eco-friendly design, major infrastructure is still lacking within the district. The Chinese government is still promoting the project as a healthy, on-going development that will propel Changsha into a new shining metropolis, however, and  has awarded Meixi New City the “2014 Prize for Chinese eco-living”.

RELATED MEDIA COVERS