The Humble Administrator Garden Musealisation International Workshop

Details

• Time: 3 - 10 January 2026
• Venue: Department of Architecture, Design School
• Language: English
• Contact: roberto.podda@gdsqbz.com

Abstract

As an ancient Chinese proverb beautifully observes, ¡®In heaven there is paradise, on earth there is Suzhou and Hangzhou.¡¯ Honouring this enduring wisdom, ¡®The Humble Administrator Garden Workshop¡¯ brings together the Accademia Adrianea, the Sino-Italian Urban Regeneration Hub (SIURH), and the Department of Architecture at XJTLU in a unique collaborative initiative. Set within the poetic landscape of the Humble Administrator's Garden ¡ª a UNESCO World Heritage site in Suzhou's historic Gusu District ¡ª the workshop challenges participants to explore new dialogues between historical tradition and contemporary practice. These classical gardens represent a perfect synthesis of nature, architecture and spiritual contemplation, embodying a metaphysical approach to landscape that students will reinterpret through the lens of musealization using contemporary architectural language. Participants will be challenged to envision how these deeply symbolic spaces can incorporate innovative design approaches, honouring their historical significance while enhancing both cultural meaning and the visitor experience. The Gusu district provides an ideal living laboratory for experimenting with designs that thoughtfully bridge heritage and modern design. During the workshop, students will be based at XJTLU's Suzhou campus, located just thirty minutes from Shanghai, where they will have access to advanced laboratories, digital fabrication tools, and collaborative workspaces to develop interdisciplinary design proposals. The programme integrates guided site visits, thematic seminars, and hands-on workshops, fostering both practical skills and research-oriented thinking. Design projects will encompass diverse interventions¡ªfrom museum itineraries to temporary installations¡ªthat blend traditional materials with advanced technologies, maintaining a consistent focus on sustainable strategies and cultural continuity. This initiative aspires not only to inspire emerging architects but also to contribute meaningfully to global conversations about heritage preservation, architectural innovation, and the creation of meaningful places for contemporary society.