Vector Architectes

a+u’s January issue features Vector Architects, founded by Gong Dong in 2008. From its earliest projects, the Beijing-based firm has prioritized the relationship of built work to its site, from ocean, to mountains, to the heart of the city, while investigating both natural and artificial landmarks for clues on how best to address the unique requirements of each program. While Gong Dong is no stranger to bold gestures, as evidenced by Seashore Chapel in Qinhuangdao, recent work, such as Jingyang Camphor Court in Jingdezhen, seems to retreat from view, knitting itself into the urban fabric until structure and surroundings become inseverable. While material continues to be critical to their capture and play of light, Vector Architects’ resolution to preserve nature, such as their decision to make 18-meter trees the nucleus of Liyuan Primary School in Shenzhen, attests to their ability to grasp the genius loci of their site. (a+u)