From November 30 to December 5, 2024, the Southern Architect Group conducted an educational study trip to Harbin, China, under the theme “Exploring Cross-Cultural Architecture in Winter.” The trip aimed to study architectural designs that blend Eastern and Western influences while examining material use and design techniques adapted to extreme cold climates.
During the six-day trip, participants visited several iconic architectural landmarks, including:
- Saint Sophia Cathedral: Showcasing Byzantine-style architecture that reflects the influence of Russian culture in the region.
- Central Street (Zhongyang Street): A historic promenade featuring classical European and Art Deco-style buildings, renowned for their charm and uniqueness.
- Ice and Snow World: A stunning display of large-scale ice sculptures combining artistic creativity with structural engineering.
- Songhua River Iron Bridge: A historical engineering marvel demonstrating modern bridge design from the colonial era.
The program also included interactive discussions on sustainable architectural practices in extreme weather conditions. Additionally, participants explored the famous Harbin Ice and Snow Festival to gain inspiration from its innovative use of ice as a design medium in a natural context.
This study trip provided valuable insights into architectural design, fostered collaboration among architects, and inspired fresh ideas for sustainable and culturally relevant projects in the future.
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