Nestled in Longyou County, Quzhou, Zhejiang Province, a small town on the banks of the Qujiang River, the “The Wind Rises” installation stands as a beacon of architectural innovation. Originally intended as a small pier for medium-sized cruise ships, the design team, led by Qing·Weishe Studio and the School of Architecture and Urban Planning of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, strategically transformed the structure into a flood prevention embankment, merging practicality with artistic expression. The project incorporates the familiar scenes of local villagers fishing, washing clothes, and resting by the river, a nostalgic touch that resonates with the design team’s roots in Wuhan. These everyday activities are woven into the design, creating a sense of belonging and cultural connection.
From afar, the installation resembles three translucent square towers, each perched on a different platform, creating a unique skyline. The towers are constructed with single-column steel frames and enveloped in intricate metal mesh, blurring the boundaries between the landscape and the structure. This delicate veil filters the surrounding scenery, casting a soft, ethereal glow. By night, the towers transform into luminous beacons, guiding vessels on the river and offering warmth and shelter to the villagers on shore. The towers, like the large trees at the edge of the village, serve as navigational landmarks and offer respite from the elements. The towers’ upturned corners, reminiscent of billowing fabric, capture the essence of the wind, creating a dynamic and evocative presence. 
The design team employed a modular approach, utilizing five different types of unit modules based on a single-column elevated platform. The modules, designed to adapt to varying environmental and functional needs, seamlessly integrate into the existing landscape, blending seamlessly with the surrounding natural features. This flexible design allows for future expansion and adaptation, ensuring the installation’s longevity and relevance.
The installation’s design transcends traditional flood prevention structures, imbuing it with a distinct sense of purpose and identity. The “The Wind Rises” installation in Longyou County is a testament to the power of design to elevate everyday structures into architectural masterpieces, forging a unique connection between nature, culture, and the human experience.
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