ebulletin

October 12, 2023
Cainiao Headquarters, Hangzhou

Located in Yuhang District of Hangzhou, Cainiao Headquarters consists of a 5-storey office building complemented with a plenitude of communal spaces. The architects, Aedas have shaped the headquarters to a collaborative hub for Cainiao workers in Hangzhou.The headquarters sits to the west of the Future Technology City Yuhang.

Inspired by space station, the planning emphasises ‘circulation’ and ‘connectivity’ to reflect Cainiao’s corporate identity and belief. Adjacent to the centre is the main building where the diagonal connections planned inside enhance the accessibility and minimise the walking distance from each other. It is seamlessly linked by optimising the cores and elevations, and creates 4 distinctive internal courtyards connected by an atrium. A canopy corridor links all courtyards, offering all-weather access to all places starting from the entrance. The design creates a porous development, which enhances circulation and allows natural ventilation passing through.

The entrance mimics the shape of a bird’s mouth to create a contemporary layered canopy. It echoes the design of visitor centre, adopting insulated low-E glass panels to bring sunlight into interiors and to minimise heat gain to create a people-centric work-recreate environment. The overall façade design draws inspiration from the company logo, a ‘Nest’ embracing the entire headquarters is formed by articulating the company logos. The repetition of pattern incorporates the logo and nest, and ensures the view and privacy of the interiors. It is also a metaphor of the seamless relationship between Cainiao, its partners and its powerful global network.

Flexible interior working environment

The spaces are linked through the diagonal connection, offering a flexible and open working environment for the workers. With full-height glass, workers can enjoy sunlight and landscape view during working time. Numerous meeting rooms are designed and allocated within the whole building to cater different needs. Cantilevered meeting rooms are created to inject vibrancy to the headquarters and provide unobstructed courtyard view. To further strengthen communications and encourage collaboration, sufficient pantry and breakout space are evenly distributed.

Open communal courtyards

Four courtyards feature different functions, providing open communal spaces for company activities, F&B, recreational and wellness.

South courtyard Indoor sports ground

East courtyard connects with the main entrance and includes a multi-function hall for holding large-scale events including the popular festival of 11th November. South courtyard incorporates lakeside view with sports amenities.

West courtyard

West courtyard consists of many F&B outlets and outdoor seats with a terrace, as a place for dining and socialising. Abundant greenery is included to provide a relaxing resting area for workers. North courtyard provides a serene garden that connects with the nature.

Collaborative atrium

The four courtyards are interconnected by a central atrium which serves as a communal hub for the headquarters. Sets of stairs and elevators are designed to ensure the connectivity and to lead the workers towards the atrium. Filled with sunlight and light-tone finishes, it is a place-making venue for entertainment and collaboration, and a cradle to foster creativity.