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The River Commons: An Act of Industrial Alchemy, Chen Yang, Liwei Guo, Chao Li | International Design Awards Winners
The River Commons: An Act of Industrial Alchemy, Chen Yang, Liwei Guo, Chao Li | International Design Awards Winners
The River Commons: An Act of Industrial Alchemy, Chen Yang, Liwei Guo, Chao Li | International Design Awards Winners
The River Commons: An Act of Industrial Alchemy, Chen Yang, Liwei Guo, Chao Li | International Design Awards Winners
The River Commons: An Act of Industrial Alchemy, Chen Yang, Liwei Guo, Chao Li | International Design Awards Winners
The River Commons: An Act of Industrial Alchemy, Chen Yang, Liwei Guo, Chao Li | International Design Awards Winners
The River Commons: An Act of Industrial Alchemy, Chen Yang, Liwei Guo, Chao Li | International Design Awards Winners
The River Commons: An Act of Industrial Alchemy, Chen Yang, Liwei Guo, Chao Li | International Design Awards Winners
The River Commons: An Act of Industrial Alchemy, Chen Yang, Liwei Guo, Chao Li | International Design Awards Winners
The River Commons: An Act of Industrial Alchemy, Chen Yang, Liwei Guo, Chao Li | International Design Awards Winners
The River Commons: An Act of Industrial Alchemy, Chen Yang, Liwei Guo, Chao Li | International Design Awards Winners

The River Commons: An Act of Industrial Alchemy

CompanyChen Yang, Liwei Guo, Chao Li
Lead DesignersChen Yang, Liwei Guo, Chao Li
Project LocationDenver
Prize(s)Bronze in Urban Planning / Infrastructure / Sustainable Urban Architecture
Entry Description

This project embodies restorative urbanism, transforming a polluted brownfield and former redlined district into an equitable, resilient community. Repurposed shipping containers form elevated affordable housing above the preserved factory, now a public commons celebrating local culture and economy. Integrating industrial waste and modular structures, the design stabilizes the riverbank and mitigates flood risks, turning a site of exclusion and decay into a sustainable, inclusive, and nature-connected urban future.