Application to the Master of Urban Design at University College London
Selected works from 2020—2024
Lu Kai
Application Number: 25151837
Landscape Architecture (Bachelor of Engineering)
Zhejiang A&F University (ZAFU)
lucus200102@163.com
The diversification of landscape design will be the trend of the future
With the development of society and the economy, different cultures and social backgrounds will intertwine, and people's needs for landscapes will also change. People are no longer satisfied with green spaces that are simply for relaxation.
So, Future landscape design must be an organic unity of intelligence, ecology, and humanity, integrating multiple disciplines and technologies in landscape design has become an irreversible trend in the context of globalization. I continuously focus on exploring the deeper connotations of local culture by integrating cutting-edge technology with traditional landscape elements to create innovative spatial experiences that continue historical context and meet modern needs.
Landscape design can serve as a bridge connecting other disciplines, but it is not a simple tool for immediate use. It requires a fundamental understanding of the basic logic of other disciplines, and only then can landscape planning establish a communication bridge. In-depth design, however, needs to be carried out by professionals from specific fields. This is more about a collaborative relationship between disciplines.
Treasures In The Ocean
New model of aquaculture in Peru under the global food crisis context
Green Infiltration
Stormwater Management in Socially Interactive Public Spaces
Journey to Seek Spices
Tourist-Participatory Productive Tour of Ceylon Cinnamon
Rebirth
in the Crevice
Wholesale Market and Community Reconstruction Based on Urban Acupuncture Theory
Other Works
Achievements during Undergraduate Studies
Treasures In The Ocean
New model of aquaculture in Peru under the global food crisis context
Tutor: Hong Quan
Location: Chimbote Bay, Peru
Area: 107.22 ha
Type: Individual / Academic work
Date: 2022.1-2022.3
Design Description:
Key Concern: Aquaculture; Artificial Islands and Reefs; Sustainable; Peru's fishing industry is facing multiple crises. Overfishing has led to a significant decline in the population of key economic fish species, such as anchovies, while biodiversity has been severely damaged. Meanwhile, the emergence of the El Niño phenomenon has further exacerbated fluctuations in fishery production. Compared to neighboring countries, Peru's aquaculture industry is relatively underdeveloped, and has failed to effectively mitigate the impacts of declining wild catches, leading to economic downturns and a growing food crisis.
To address these challenges, Chimbote Bay has been selected as the pilot site for an aquaculture project. The design plan includes the implementation of multi-trophic aquaculture and artificial reef construction, utilizing food chain relationships to guide the flow of materials within the farming areas, thus increasing product diversity while minimizing the generation of aquaculture waste. Additionally, the construction of artificial wetlands will effectively reduce land-based pollutants from entering the aquaculture zones. In urban areas, land-based aquaculture technologies will be developed to increase production while integrating educational functions for public awareness.
A Grim Future——Global Food Security
The crisis in the Peruvian food security
Land area: 128000 (1000ha)
1.Climate Change El Niño
2.Overfishing
Anchovy The
Barriers to sustainable aquaculture systems
Legend:
① Sunlit Lawn
② Watching Platform
③ River channel widening
④ Purify water channel
⑤ Artificial Wetland ⑥ Estuary
⑦ Floating aquaculture modules
⑧ Traffic-Driven Fish Reefs
⑨ Aquaculture Fish Reefs
The artificial reefs set up to guide ocean currents can effectively alleviate the erosion of aquaculture areas and coastlines by waves.
Regional Development and Evolution
Phased Development to Achieve Sustainable Resource Utilization
Ocean current interference
Aquaculture Method
Zone 2: Wetland Purification System
The ocean current traverses three aquaculture zones, leveraging the food chain for self-purification.
WETLAND RENDERINGS
Aquaculture Zone Water Circulation
Green Infiltration
Stormwater Management in Socially Interactive Public Spaces
Tutor: Hong Quan
Location: Chengdu, China
Area: 2.02 ha
Type: Individual / Academic work
Date: 2022.3-2022.7
Key Concern: Stormwater Management; Green Infrastructure; Rain Garden;
Design Description:
With the rapid advancement of urbanization, the population and building density in cities continue to rise, and large areas of natural land have been covered by impermeable buildings, roads, and infrastructure. This has led to reduced infiltration of precipitation into underground water systems and an increase in surface runoff. At the same time, Chengdu often experiences heavy rainfall during the summer, and the traditional drainage system struggles to cope with large amounts of rainwater.
The design site was originally an abandoned construction demolition area. The surrounding elevated roads and high-density buildings make water management in the area even more complex. The design aims to transform this site into a public space that combines water management with recreational activities for the public, enhancing the resilience and sustainability of stormwater management in the area, while alleviating pressure on the municipal drainage system. Through terrain modification, the site can effectively handle and detain surface runoff that is difficult to infiltrate. Additionally, a variety of green infrastructure will be integrated into the site, creating a space where people can interact with and benefit from reclaimed water resources.
Stormwater Management for the Designing Site
Venue Introduction
Chengdu's urban flooding issues stem from an inadequate drainage system, rapid urbanization, climate change, and poor river management, leading to insufficient drainage capacity during heavy rainfall, requiring continuous infrastructure and greenery improvements.
Drainage system
——under urban rainfall system
Main Sources of Urban Waterlogging
PRIMARY WATER SOURCES OF URBAN FLOODING
Conflict1: Overpass rain water
Conflict2: Residential building drainage Conflict3: Waterlogging on site
COLLABORATION WITHIN AND OUTSIDE THE SITE
Rainwater is first treated through external sponge city facilities, with any excess beyond the facility's capacity directed into the site for secondary treatment.
Water Sourse:
Surface runoff is pretreated through measures like under-bridge greenery and rooftop gardens, with the overflow directed into the site.
The overflow channel purifies and infiltrates rainwater during light rain and discharges excess during heavy rain. The rooftop greenery system retains rainfall, distributing stormwater runoff over a longer period, aiding urban stormwater management. The green space in front of the building can significantly absorb drainage from the structure, reducing surface runoff. The transformed site can effectively retain rainwater, significantly mitigating urban flooding in the area.
MASTER PLAN
Morphological simulation
The site has complex surface runoff with chaotic water flow directions. Shape the terrain to manage multiple water sources.
Determine the direction for adjusting surface runoff.
Elevate the terrain to ensure that surface runoff within the site flows along the planned path.
Set up a pedestrian pathway system to connect different areas.
Based on the orientation of buildings, roads, and the flow direction of elevated drainage, determine the runoff entry points into the site.
Collect surface runoff through a sunken terrain, which also serves to store rainwater.
Rainwater collection green spaces can effectively infiltrate rainwater.
1.Waterfall Wall
2.Grassed Step
3.Water Canyon
4.Aquatic Plants Education Zone
5.Dry Fountain Plaza
RELEVANT DATA CALCULATION
Each Underlying Surface
Different catchment areas have different runoff coefficients, and they also vary in their ability to control runoff pollution. The site’s post-design annual runoff volume control rate can be calculated and compared with the design target annual runoff volume control rate specified in government planning documents to confirm whether the design requirements are met.
Green Roof :
Green Space :
Rainwater Assessment:
Hardscape :
Controlling Surface Runoff Through Topography
to sustain the water consumption of green facilities within the site, achieving the recycling of rainwater resources.
UTILIZATION OF SURFACE RUNOFF
"GRASS-STEP STAIRS"
Grass-step stairs, compared to hard steps, have better water retention capabilities, effectively reducing surface runoff. They also provide resting and viewing spaces for parents, making it easier to watch children playing in the water pool.
"ECOLOGICAL WETLAND"
Eco-wetlands not only serve to purify water, reduce runoff pollution, and enhance water retention, but also function as an educational hub to raise public awareness of urban stormwater issues, while supporting
university research activities.
C15 Concrete
AERIAL VIEW
3D PRINTED MODEL
Vertical Height Difference
This design involves the redevelopment of abandoned land, primarily focusing on adjusting the existing terrain to guide surface runoff in an orderly manner.
Detail View
Ecological Wetland
Dry Fountain
Wading Pool
Children's Play
Water Pool
Aerial View
Journey to Seek Spices: Ceylon Cinnamon
Tourist-Participatory Productive Tour of Ceylon Cinnamon
Tutor: Shen Yamei
Location: Ambalangoda, Sri Lanka
Site: 1.15km
Type: Individual / Academic work
Date: 2021.3-2021.6
Key Concern: Ceylon cinnamon; Tourist Routes;
Design Description:
Due to the impacts of the pandemic, political instability, and economic crisis, Sri Lanka's tourism industry has been severely affected. As one of the country's major sources of revenue, the downturn in tourism has further exacerbated economic challenges and impacted related industries, leading to increased unemployment and economic hardship. This situation necessitates finding ways to revitalize the tourism sector.
Sri Lanka is renowned for its Ceylon cinnamon, but the industry’s reliance on manual processing limits its production capacity and hinders development, with younger generations showing little interest in continuing this traditional craft. However, this very reliance on manual processing presents an opportunity for a new approach. By combining Ceylon cinnamon production with experiential tourism, visitors can learn about the history and culture of cinnamon and actively participate in the processing. This interactive experience enhances the appeal of tourism, stimulates the growth of the cinnamon industry, and helps revive the tourism sector, creating a mutually beneficial relationship between the two industries.
General Situation And Location Analysis
The site is located in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, one of the main regions for cinnamon production in the country. Ambalangoda, in particular, is a high-yield area. The design site is surrounded by abundant cinnamon plantations, and there are related processing industries and factories in the vicinity.
The powdered gold of Sri Lanka —— Ceylon Cinnamon
History Of Cinnamon
1. Pre-colonial Period
500 Bc-Arab traders brought Cinnamon to Europe
Dutch
2. Portuguese Period 1500 Bc-Portugal Took over ceylon tree production
Types of Cinnamon Industry
Ceylon cinnamon often regarded as the best cinnamon in the world, with its only viable competitor being Chinese Cassia cinnamon
① Cinnamon Leaf Essential Oil
② Cinnamon Quilling
③ Cinnamon Powder
Collapse of Sri Lanka's Economy: Challenges and Prospects Amidst Devastating Impact on Tourism Industry
Financial Crisis ---- A drop in tourism
With
Reason1: COVID-19 Pandemic
The global COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on the tourism industry.
Reason2: Fierce Regional Competition
Neighboring countries all have clear brand strategies
Thailand: Complete tourist facilities
Maldives: Beachfront Resorts and Diving
The solution:
Integrating local Ceylon cinnamon production into tourism can be a distinctive feature of the Sri Lankan brand.
India: Rich in historical heritage
Sri Lanka supplies 85% of the world’s Ceylon cinnamon.
Ceylon cinnamon industry
3.
Period 1580-Dutch takeover ceylon from Portuguesse
4. British Period 1795-British are in control of ceylon.
Master Plan: A comprehensive overview of Ceylon cinnamon and its industry
DETAIL PLAN A: Transport Terminal and Primary Processing Area
Primary processing steps
Zipline Transportation
Using a zipline offers advantages such as saving costs, decreasing labor intensity and reducing environmental impact. Branches can be processed into cinnamon quills and cinnamon powder, while leaves can be distilled into essential oil. Cinnamon branches must be soaked for at least 15 minutes to make it easier to scrape off the outer bark and obtain the inner bark. The leaves need to be thoroughly dried, this helps to better release the essential oil components and ensures higher quality of the extracted oil.
Soaking branches (Soaking area) Branch and leaf separation (Landscape Terrain)
Drying cinnamon leaves (Sunken Grass Slope)
Branch and leaf separation
Soaking branches
Drying cinnamon leaves
DETAIL PLAN B: Ceylon Cinnamon Quills Processing Area
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
PLOT RENDRING
Stepped
SECTION A-A
Sunken Corridor
Shade Trees
Indian Rosewood Pterocarpus indicus
Camphortree Cinnamomum camphora
DETAIL PLAN C: Cinnamon Essential Oil Processing Area
Legend:
1. Entrance Plaza
2. Steam generator
3. Grinder
4. Condenser
5. Small pier
6. Oil separator
7. Purification device
PLOT RENDERING
Air-Purifying Plants
CINNAMON ESSENTIAL OIL PROCESSING FLOW CHART
In the production process, all parts of Ceylon cinnamon are fully utilized. The cinnamon stick cores discarded during the making of cinnamon quills can be used as fuel to provide heat for extracting cinnamon essential oil. Additionally, the excess heat generated during this process can be used in a steam amusement area.
STEAM GENERATOR: Creating an interactive landscape using steam
SECTION A-A
PURIFICATION DEVICE: Having certain educational significance in popular science
SECTION B-B
Camphortree Cinnamomum camphora
Poinciana Delonix regia
Ginkgo Ginkgo biloba Mulberry Morus alba
Rebirth in the Crevice
Wholesale market and community reconstruction based on urban acupuncture theory
Tutor: Tao Yizhou
Location: Hangzhou, China
Area: 28.26 ha
Type: Individual / Academic work
Date: 2021.9-2022.1
Design Description:
Key Concern: Urban Renewal; Urban Acupuncture; Wholesale Market; Multilevel Corridor System; The community is the basic unit of a city, and with urbanization, many older communities face issues such as lack of public space and outdated infrastructure. The urban acupuncture theory promotes small-scale, targeted interventions to gradually improve specific urban areas. The Hangzhou Si Ji Qing Garment Market, an important wholesale market, was built many years ago with outdated planning. This has led to increasing conflicts between the market and the surrounding residential areas.
This design, based on the urban acupuncture theory, focuses on small-scale interventions to optimize the space between market buildings, separate pedestrian and vehicle traffic, and expand public areas. It also introduces a three-dimensional bridge system to transform underutilized spaces into multifunctional shared spaces, accommodating the needs of residents, market workers, and the e-commerce sector. This approach not only improves space efficiency but also reduces conflicts and helps guide the market toward a higher-quality, networked future.
Wholesale markets focus on bulk transactions for speed and efficiency, so businesses are reluctant to accept retail customers due to their smaller purchase volumes.
Retailers purchase goods from wholesale markets and then sell them in stores.
Wholesale markets primarily provide goods for retailers and e-commerce businesses. Due to the large size of trucks, if traffic is not properly planned, it may lead to congestion in urban areas.
Traditional live-streaming e-commerce lacks innovation, interactivity, and engagement.
3. E-commerce Sellers
Wholesale Markets
SPACE STRATEGY | URBAN MICRO-UPDATING THROUGH POINT-BASED INFILTRATION
GRADUAL APPROACH TO ALLEVIATE RESIDENTIAL AND WHOLESALE MARKET CONFLICT
By reconfiguring the gray spaces between buildings in the wholesale market and utilizing vacant land in the residential area, small-scale interventions will transform these spaces into civic activity areas, forming a northsouth activity axis. Given limited space, the design extends vertically with an east-west elevated corridor system, creating an east-west activity axis to reduce the impact between the wholesale market and residential area.
Structural Analysis
Replan the internal roads of the residential area to separate pedestrians and vehicles, with two main bidirectional roads and a vehicle-free central activity zone.
ACTIVATING THE GREY SPACES BETWEEN WHOLESALE MARKET BUILDINGS
ORIGINAL BRAND SHOWCASE STREET
Utilizing front spaces of the wholesale market to serve individual customers and showcase independent brands.
VERTICAL FREIGHT SYSTEM
Utilizing the back space of the wholesale market for a vertical logistics hub and the rooftop for a rest garden for freight workers.
COMPREHENSIVE REST SQUARE
Reorganizing the underutilized gray spaces between the buildings of the wholesale market, to provide a resting area for staff and customers.
Wholesale Market
2. Original Brand Street 3. Activity Square
Wholesale Market 2. Rooftop Garden
Vertical Storage
Freight Parking Lot
Wholesale Market 2. Shallow Water pool
Tree-Lined Path
Sunken Landscape Lawn
THREE-DIMENSIONAL DUAL-LAYER CORRIDOR SYSTEM
The upper-level space of this corridor system can host small, mobile landscape structures, ideal for e-commerce street photography. Relocating e-commerce functions
wholesale businesses and e-commerce.
(Ⅰ) Pedestrian Bridge Guardrail
The bridge guardrail height variation reduces visual interference between residential areas and wholesale markets.
Guiding the Line of Sight Between Narrow Buildings ( Through Guardrail Height Variation )
Event Integration (Separating Some E-commerce Operations from the Wholesale Market)
(Ⅱ) Movable Landscape Structure
Movable landscape struct ures are cost-effective, flexible, and can meet the fast-paced, fresh demands of commercial shoots across various scenes and seasons.
Themed Event
Pop-up structures can be set up in the skybridge space. These detachable and quick-to-build installations can meet the needs of various fashion-themed events, such as new product launches and runway shows.
(Ⅲ) Clothing night market
Wholesale markets close at 4:30 PM, and with no delivery trucks needed, a clothing night market can be set up under the pedestrian bridge to cater to individual customers.
E-commerce clothing photography and live-stream selling are unsuitable for wholesale markets. These activities need small, flexible spaces that can quickly adapt to changing products and customer tastes.
Activating The Pedestrian Bridge Underpass at Night (Time Coordination)
Unlike wholesale markets, night markets primarily serve walkin visitors. After work, local residents can come to shop and relax, providing a leisure space while also increasing exposure for original brands.
from the wholesale market helps ease spatial conflicts between traditional
05 OTHER WORKS
Rockery Design
The rockery features the use of Taihu stones, with a base material consisting of 500mm thick C10 concrete and a compacted layer of unrefined soil, planting scheme retains the existing plants.
Three-hour Fast Design
Whisper · Murmuration
Location: Sanya, Hainan, China
Type: Practice
Time: 02/2024
Instructor: lv Jiawei
Team Work: Lu Kai, zhang Yixuan, Zheng Boning, Li Yufei, Wang Peiyi, Huang Hexiang, Wu Binyao, Pan Xulin, He Yiyun, Yang Zhouning, He Muzhao
Role: 30% preliminary research, 50% conceptual, 30% design development
Design Concept:
The phenomenon of starlings flying in unison creates a stunning visual and auditory impact, a sublime experience of nature that few can encounter. The design begins with the study of individual components, aiming to capture and solidify this moment through a rhythmic composition. The goal is to evoke the natural phenomenon of starlings in flight. Beneath the installation, the body will experience the sound of wind passing through the structure's cavities and the swaying motion, with even the tension of the steel cables pulling in the wind creating a sense of unease.
