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ISLE Inner Maison (Vanke Mushi)
Landscape Design
JTL Studio Singapore
Completion Year
2023
Location
Ningbo, China
Developer
Vanke Ningbo
Enduring Elegance and Tranquillity
As the inaugural project of Vanke’s “Shi” series, Ningbo Mushi was conceptualised and designed with a vision of creating a community atmosphere that is both artistic and relaxed. Nestled in Yinzhou District, Ningbo, this project reflects the ethos of blending natural charm with meticulous landscape design, offering residents a place to truly experience life.
A Secluded Retreat
Mushi’s entrance is deliberately understated, designed to evoke a sense of discovery and homecoming. Eschewing prominent gateways, the discreet entryway opens into a serene space featuring a water body and a surrounding corridor. Clean lines and pocket gardens interspersed within the corridors create an interplay of openness and intimacy.
The project’s riverside boundary is transformed into a wellness park for residents, seamlessly integrating natural greenery and functional spaces. The winding paths and planted borders soften the urban edge, fostering a tranquil environment where nature envelops and defines the living experience.
Water Among the Woods
To counterbalance the fragmented spatial layout created by the buildings, the design introduces a cohesive landscape axis: the concept of “Water Among the Woods.” This vision frames the buildings as if they are floating on water, connected by meandering garden paths lined with tall trees.
The tree canopies diffuse the rigidity of the surrounding architecture, guiding residents along serene pathways that merge seamlessly with reflective water features. This harmonious design creates a poetic connection between natural and built elements, offering a tranquil escape within a high-density residential area.
The Breezy Lawn and Beyond
At the heart of the community lies the Breezy Lawn, a central open space that invites riverside breezes to flow through. Connected to adjacent courtyards and functional clusters, this lawn acts as a social and recreational hub. Pergolas and terraces provide spaces for family gatherings, while the relaxed landscaping encourages both movement and stillness.
For children, the thoughtfully designed play areas incorporate natural materials and sensory gardens, fostering exploration and interaction in a safe and inviting environment. The soft layers of planting throughout the community create a sense of refinement and relaxation, balancing function with beauty.
A Timeless Vision
Years after its completion, Mushi continues to resonate with JTL Studio’s philosophy of enduring landscape aesthetics. By focusing on intimate, human-scale interactions rather than decorative excess, the design embraces the essence of life through a long-term perspective. Ningbo Mushi stands as a testament to the timeless beauty of landscapes shaped by careful planning and deep connection with nature.