Cordogan, Clark & Associates in Limited International Competition

10/26/2011

Cordogan, Clark & Associates was selected as the only U.S. architectural firm to participate in a limited international competition for the design of the new corporate headquarters of China Aviation Industry Corporation, in Beijing. This is a major aviation company whose focus is to efficiently develop indigenous Chinese military and civilian airline industry technologies. It manufactures J-10 and Super 7 fighter jets, among other aviation products

This master plan design for a 5.5 million s.f. corporate headquarters comprises several blocks. Our design incorporates state-of-the-art airplane technology in the building fabric. For example, adjustable aluminum fins similar to airplane aerolons provide solar shading. Aluminum, advanced plastics, and advanced glazing technologies are used in the building skins. Yet the master plan also references ancient Chinese planning principles, such as traditional Chinese courtyard planning and "feng shui" principles. Many of these ancient principles are compatible with the contemporary emphasis on sustainable or "green" design. The courtyard design brings generous natural light to all parts of the development. These courtyards fully landscaped, and are accented with reflecting pools of water. The design also uses sustainable technologies such as solar and geothermal for heating and cooling. Rain and waste water is recycled. Green roofs reduce the urban heat-island effect, while providing welcome outdoor space within the dense urban fabric. And vertical gardens elevate the greenscape within the hi-rise buildings, providing internal gardens and courtyards directly accessible to the elevated offices

The advanced design of the building fabric and architectural form is specifically expressive of this company's product line. It clearly positions this corporate headquarters at the forefront of its field. Yet its sustainable features and technologies make this an eminently livable environment. It provides an enjoyable work environment conducive to creativity and serious contemplation.