Studio RE+N transforms abandoned rooftop into community space in Songyang County

In Songyang County's Shuinan subdistrict, Zhejiang province, Studio RE+N has converted a long-neglected second-floor platform into a vibrant community gathering space. Originally constructed between 2015 and 2017, the platform had fallen into disrepair with cracked surfaces, missing facilities, and a deteriorated public bathroom. Despite its central location among residential buildings, the area remained largely unused due to poor accessibility and unclear programming. The architectural project, completed in 2025, covers 1,300 square meters and was commissioned by Songyang County Xingmin New Rural Construction Development Co., Ltd. Curated by HAN Shuang, the design team was led by Yuting Zhang with contributions from Pu Zhang, Haiqi Wei, and Yuhao Liu. Photography was handled by Kejia Mei. The transformation demonstrates how minimal material investment can yield significant public life benefits in small Chinese counties. The space now hosts daily gatherings and improvised community activities, creating what the designers describe as an "improvised drama" of public interaction. Consulting services were provided by Songyang County Architectural Design Co., Ltd., while Songyang County Zimin Municipal Engineering Co., Ltd. served as collaborators. The project represents a strategic reuse of underutilized urban infrastructure in rural development contexts.