Huacai Harbour City

Haikou, Hainan, China

Haikou Bay Square occupies a prominent position on Haidian Island, overlooking the marina, Haikou Harbour, and the dramatic Century Bridge that connects to the mainland. With uninterrupted panoramic views from northwest to southeast—spanning the city skyline and the South China Sea—the site’s unique vantage point is fully leveraged in the development’s design, which prioritizes transparency and pedestrian permeability from the city to the waterfront.

This landmark destination brings together commercial and office spaces on the west, while seamlessly integrating with the existing marina and Huacai Hualuxe Hotel to the east. Haikou Bay Square is set to become the city’s first high-end, south-facing business district overlooking the bay, anchored by two central office towers rising from a dynamic podium of retail and entertainment offerings.

Phase One is complete, and Phase Two aligns with the original master plan to ensure continuity across the development. A wave-like, two-storey gallery lined with restaurants and shops guides visitors through the site, framed by lush roof gardens that echo the island’s tropical landscape. Pedestrian pathways weave through the complex, linking it to the nearby hotel and yacht club and ensuring seamless transitions across the site.

At ground level, open-concept public spaces feature a cinema, luxury retail, duty-free shops, restaurants, and markets, all designed for flexibility and mixed use. The interconnected open space network reinforces a cohesive identity and strengthens key access points, especially at the south entrance—the site’s primary focal point.

The architecture blends modern and coastal elements, presenting a refined international image. The commercial towers, designed with chamfered corners that resemble cut sapphires, rise above a sculpted podium like blue gems emerging from the sea. The building facades and night-time illumination are carefully considered to enhance Haikou’s skyline, contributing an elegant silhouette and lively evening presence to the city. A destination for residents, workers, and tourists alike, Haikou Bay Square revitalizes its prime waterfront location with vibrancy, connectivity, and iconic design.

Project Facts
Client
Hainan Huacai Investment Holdings
Location
Haikou, Hainan, China
Status
Completed 2023
Size
472,000 sq. ft.
Partner
David Pontarini