A tiny skiff: A Harmonious Blend of Nature and Urban Aesthetics.

Our team arkee studio collaborated with team atypia from Shanghai, completed a design proposal for a water pump facility upgrade in Shanghai, Chongming district. Our design approach “A Tiny Skiff” offers visitors a tranquil retreat from the urban hustle and bustle, where they can immerse themselves in nature.

The project site is located on the eastern part of Zhongyangsha at the westernmost tip of Changxing Island in Chongming District, Shanghai. This unique artificial sandy beach is a rare coastal green space within the city, our design concept of “A Tiny Skiff” skillfully integrates the uniqueness of the water intake facility. The southwest end adopts a simple circular design approach, effectively separating pedestrian and vehicular flows while maintaining overall cohesion. This seamless fusion of modern urban characteristics with the beauty of natural landscapes allows visitors to experience the delicate white sands stretching beneath their feet, perfectly complementing the vast waters of the Huangpu River.

The circular design concept extends to the waterside landscape platform, the second-level leisure platform, and the rooftop observation deck. A spacious pathway winds along the beach, making it ideal for strolling and jogging. The second level features comfortable rest areas where visitors can enjoy the scenery, taking in panoramic views of the surroundings and the central sandbank’s water channels. As night falls, the interplay of beach lighting and the flowing, leaf-like roof design creates a romantic atmosphere, making the location especially appealing for couples on evening strolls or for hosting small events.

Staying true to the essence of Zhongyangsha Beach, “A Tiny Skiff” is an open public leisure space designed with a strong emphasis on environmental protection. The design incorporates wooden façades to decorate auxiliary buildings, while a light steel structure supports the galvanized metal roof, seamlessly integrated with cast-in-place concrete panels. This minimalist yet natural architectural form ensures that visitors, local waterbirds, and surrounding wildlife can coexist in a clean and comfortable ecological setting.

As the evening mist shrouds Changxing Island, “A Tiny Skiff” rests upon Zhongyangsha—a place that is more than just an urban green space. It is a rare sanctuary for city dwellers to unwind and reconnect with nature. This project brings a touch of nature to the heart of Shanghai’s modern metropolis, standing as a cherished “urban oasis” for both residents and tourists alike.