MixC Changzhou, 10 Design

Project: MixC Changzhou
Award: Retail & Consumer Design Interiors - Retail Chains, Department Stores, Shopping Centres Large & Small, 2024
Location: Changzhou, China
Design Practice: 10 Design
Client: CR Land

MixC Changzhou is a light-filled retail shopping centre located in the heart of Changzhou, China. The 232,000-square-meter retail destination seamlessly blends modernity and natural landscapes. The scheme, by 10 Design uses thoughtful design details and unique craftsmanship to create a retail atmosphere with regional characteristics. 

With six above-ground and one underground retail spaces, MixC Changzhou takes inspiration from the tea culture of the region. Encompassing two wings with a central atrium, the design features light, bright finishes alongside curved void edges, accented with modern recessed lighting. The wave-like shapes of the viewing balconies evoke the rolling hills of tea mountains. The main atrium’s centrepiece is formed by two glass bridges that are illuminated, giving the appearance of a crystal. 

Natural light pours through multiple skylights. The daylighting roof system features leaf-shaped aluminium panels which serve as shading devices while creating distinctive patterns on the atrium floor. From floor to ceiling, the grand entrance to column details, the interior is filled with leading lines that mimic the tea leaf patterns or the natural movement of water, directing visitors’ sightlines and circulation while underscoring the design’s connection to nature.

Design highlights

The South Atrium draws inspiration from Chinese metal tea boxes, framing sections of the space to curate a selection of goods and provide a unique semi-open setting for tenants. The East Atrium features a series of themed ceiling patterns to create diverse visual experiences for each floor. 

The Cloud Atrium on Level 4 is created as a breakout space for shoppers, with a ceiling design that mimics tea leaves floating on water, eliciting a feeling of weightlessness. Large glass circular walls and an outside terrace as well as mature trees on the interior of the public seatings, underscore the connection to nature and provide a sense of calm and relaxation. 

The basement food court, positioned to welcome visitors arriving from the busy MTR station, juxtaposes the reflective metal panelling on the ceiling with the wood and stone finishes of the central kiosks. Illuminated glass boxes in the parking garage tease a selection of merchandise available to shoppers. The entrance elevators maintain a serene colour palette of light whites, stone flooring, and champagne tones. 

Photo credit: Justin Szeremeta