About
"We works for present in the future." Various Associates’s design philosophy centers on rational optimization across architecture, space, products, and concepts, aiming to crafting an original and exciting experience. The studio engages in the design and research of high-quality, experimental projects. Starting with the programs of space, VA adopts forward-looking perspectives, conduct material research, employ open thinking, challenge conventions, and focus on details and refined quality to create unique value for each project. Every project crafted by Various Associates features its own distinct spatial identity. Additionally, as a collaborative platform for artists and designers, Various Associates seeks to merge creativity and technology to explore the past, present, and future, pushing the boundaries of design creation.
As a creative design studio, Various Associates continually explores and creates new possibilities. Its design services encompass commercial and retail spaces, F&B, exhibition spaces (for cities, enterprises, and cultural and fashion purposes), complexes, hotels, schools, public buildings, single-family houses, urban planning, and more. It strives to propose new solutions from fundamental and energy consumption perspectives, including material research, product R&D, and design. Cross-disciplinary cooperation remains a key direction for Various Associates. So far, it has won numerous prestigious international design awards, and its works have been frequently featured in various professional media outlets worldwide, including FRAME, Domus, Wallpaper, Archdaily, Designboom, and gooood, etc.
Contacts
New cooperation: contacts@various-associates.com
Press: info@various-associates.com
Wechat:wanshesheji
Instagram:various_associates
Copyrights reserved by various associates
Co-founder
Press
Material Development
VA ( lab )
CyPARK
Location:Chengdu, China
Client: CyPARK
Project category:
Architecture design/Interior design/Landscape design
A New Vibrant Landmark Where Cycling Culture and Commerce Coexist
CyPARK represents an innovative extension of Chengdu's urban context. It features China’s first cycling-themed commercial destination, seamlessly integrated into the vibrancy of the city. Located in the Dayuan Area of Chengdu's High-tech Zone, the project occupies the site of the former Vitality Ring (Cultural Museum) of the Chengdu High-tech Cultural Center. Spanning approximately 44,000 square meters, it encompasses a diverse mix of commercial offerings, including fashion retail, catering, sports and outdoor experiences, culture and arts, and lifestyles.
The project adopts a semi-open block concept, featuring staggered building volumes. Four cultural buildings, connected by corridors and other public spaces, enclose over 10,000 square meters of ground area and a 4-story vertical space. These interconnected spaces form a cohesive, organic whole. By incorporating the cycling theme, Various Associates turned the original site’s limitations into features, focusing the renovation budget on fundamental forms to create a distinctive, growing commercial space.
Cycling is more than just a sport; it symbolizes a post-pandemic shift toward a freer lifestyle and new cultural values. In this project, Various Associates sought to craft a cycling-friendly space that deeply integrates cycling culture into the commercial experience. Through thoughtful organization, CyPARK is seamlessly connected to an 8.6km-long aerial cycling path, known as the "Tiexiang Cultural Tourism Ring," which runs through the Dayuan area. Cyclists can easily access the CyPARK from the city's greenway.
The circulation system is carefully organized, with distinct routes for walking and cycling that complement each other to ensure the comfort of all visitors. Bicycle elevators, parking spots, ramps, and other cycling-friendly amenities are set on each floor, ensuring cyclists can navigate freely through the space without obstruction.
The original commercial spaces were mainly located in winding corridors, which could have created a sense of monotony and fatigue. To address this, the design focused on creating efficient movement through open spaces. Cycling is incorporated as a key mode of mobility, defining the project’s identity and spiritual core.
The ground floor design emphasizes openness and diversity, fostering a free, park-like atmosphere. Streamlined contours add dynamic beauty and vitality, while the blurred boundary between the buildings and the surrounding environment allows the commercial space to merge naturally with the urban fabric, becoming an integral part of urban life. Interactive installations and cycling experience zones deepen visitors’ connection to cycling culture, fostering a stronger sense of identity and belonging.
Transform the Ground into a Canyon
To unlock the potential and possibilities of the space, the design team leveraged multi-level platforms, terraces, and corridors at varying elevations, creating a dynamic, multi-dimensional circulation system. The original underground F&B area has been transformed into an open-air space, with the resulting "canyon-like" design becoming one of CyPARK's defining features.
These multiple spatial connections, along with design flexibility, enable a variety of activities to take place. The sunken commercial street, nestled within the "canyon," features a spacious layout with community-centered features such as circular tables under trees and stepped seating areas. These designs foster social interaction, enhancing a sense of community and belonging. CyPARK has hosted numerous community events, including themed markets that attract 20,000 visitors per event.
To maximize openness, the original office-like green glass curtain walls were removed, opening up the internal space and introducing independent retail "boxes", which created an airy ambience throughout. Unlike traditional enclosed commercial spaces, CyPARK opens up building boundaries, allowing visitors to move naturally through the space.
The vertical traffic system, including stairs and elevators, is integrated seamlessly to facilitate efficient movement. The stairs feature metal railings and steps, complementing the overall architectural style. Despite limited construction time and budget, the project innovatively maximizes both the functional and commercial value of the space, prioritizing the needs of the cycling community while also accommodating diverse groups and cultures.
"One of our design objectives was to leave room for the space to grow freely," said Various Associates. “CyPARK is a growth-oriented commercial destination. We hope the relaxed atmosphere and boundary-blurring landscaping will help young brands and communities to integrate into the place effortlessly. There are no hierarchies here.”
Various Associates has deeply blended cycling culture into the commercial space. Each area is distinct yet interconnected, creating a multi-layered, multidimensional experience. The project has introduced numerous sports-themed stores and young brands, offering one-stop services for cycling enthusiasts, ranging from gear sales to social interactions. As a result, CyPARK has become a vibrant and creative public destination in the city, providing a new platform for the growth and spread of cycling culture.
more images: