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The design of Baxi Island takes a nature-first approach to demonstrate the integration of ecological, social and economic sustainability. Through strategies derived from natural processes, the design transforms an island disturbed by flooding, erosion and loss of habitat into a resilient and ecologically diverse park, taking cues from local history and culture to create socially vibrant gathering places, reconnecting its people to the river.

The 3 kilometer-long site is a pilot project among 15 islands on the Xiang River and the first to abandon conventional flood protection measures of fortifying island edges to work instead with the river’s flows and fluctuations. Integrating strategies for land stabilization and ecological revitalization with experiential and educational design elements, the project turns the threat of flooding into a safe and spectacular display of nature that follows the rhythm of the river.

To increase the island’s ability to withstand annual 6 meter river level fluctuations, it was sculpted through careful grading modifications. Working from existing topography, a series of directional berms were formed as if carved by the water, balancing cut and fill to leave the river’s carrying capacity unchanged during flood season while reducing the velocity of passing water to minimize erosion. Higher elevations accommodate exhibit centers, pavilions, gardens, playgrounds and extensive trails, all inspired by culturally significant notions. Five kilometers of meandering boardwalks built from condensed local bamboo material allow people to experience the seasonal wetlands.

To stabilize the island’s edge, underwater embankments were installed along the eastern shore where water flows rapidly, supporting the establishment of wetland terraces at the waterline. Deep-rooting local wetland plants were used to defy erosive forces. The western shore and inner channels of the wetlands feature a soft edge condition, with boulders to stabilize the bank, oxygenize the water and provide wildlife habitat.

The dynamic variation of landforms guides the planting design, which is structured around various island elevations and their respective flooding regimes. Native plant material is used to create diverse habitats and landscape characters, transitioning from wetlands and marsh zones at the water’s edge to a seasonal forest at higher elevations. This diversity increases the ecological resilience of the island as a whole, and the wetlands reduce the island’s impact on the river’s water quality by filtering runoff from paths and plazas before it flows into the Xiang.

At one-seventh of the cost of conventional and concrete-lined islands, the nature-first approach of Baxi Island sets a progressive benchmark for future developments in Changsha and beyond. Since its completion the Island has sustained several floods, fulfilling its purpose of supporting the resilience of the Xiang River, while offering the growing Changsha population of seven million people an outdoor respite reconnecting them to the river.

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