Located in Nansha, Guangzhou, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology is an elite research university that values entrepreneurial and innovative thinking. In an effort to create an inspirational, world-class campus that would foster greater collaboration, Ayers Saint Gross consulted with lead design consultant Kohn Pedersen Fox on the university’s campus master plan and subsequent architectural building design.

The master plan celebrates both the university’s natural beauty and its urban context while also providing state-of-the-art research facilities. Materializing over two phases, the plan creates spaces for housing, teaching and research, athletics, performing arts, and amenities for a population of more than 10,000 students and faculty. Accessible connections to the surrounding neighborhoods foster a sense of community and belonging on campus.

Taking inspiration from the site’s lush natural surroundings, the university is working to achieve carbon neutrality and zero water waste. The master plan includes sustainability and resiliency measures that include rainwater collection and filtration systems, flooding and wetland protection measures, active and passive thermal comfort strategies, and a smart electric mobility network.