Editor’s note:

Shenzhen is composed of nine administrative districts, one new area, and the Shenshan Special Cooperation Zone in Shanwei. While all 11 areas share Shenzhen’s defining spirit of innovation, each has its own unique characteristics. This page delves into the latest advancements in Pingshan District, a vibrant area in northeastern Shenzhen. An emerging hub for various high-tech industries, Pingshan stands out not only for its economic vitality but also for its rich cultural heritage and vast green spaces, making it an appealing destination for entrepreneurs and tourists alike.

THE design of Shenzhen Technology University Pingshan Experimental School (formerly known as Nanbu Lijing School) recently won the Gold Award in the Architectural Design — Educational category at the 2025 MUSE Design Awards.

The design team employed unconventional façade treatments to create a dynamic, lively exterior through transparency, interruptions, and interwoven volumes. Inside, staggered layouts and multi-level platform spaces offer students diverse, engaging spatial experiences. The architects describe the school as an “urban symbiotic community campus” — a place where every student can learn, grow, and thrive.

Interconnected winding platforms form multi-level spaces that can host open days, sports festivals, and graduation ceremonies. Tiered bleachers and a viewing corridor link the north and south campuses, improving access to the sports field while serving as a “colorful ribbon” across the site.

At the heart of the campus, an oval plaza atop the complex connects the primary school, the junior high, and the comprehensive building. This hub is designed for multiple uses, including exhibitions, viewing Pingshan River Park, stargazing, and geography programs.

Established by the International Awards Associate (IAA) in 2015, the MUSE Design Awards is an international competition recognizing outstanding and original design work worldwide. MUSE spotlights rising talent across architecture, interior, product, landscape, lighting, furniture, and fashion design.(Cao Zhen)