DS+R Wins $1.3B Artificial Island Competition in China

Diller Scofidio + Renfro has won a mega-competition to design a 250-hectare artificial island in Haikou Bay, Hainan, China. The project, backed by a $1.3 billion budget, will feature eco-tourism infrastructure including housing, hotels, attractions, and a port for two cruise ships. The competition was organized by HNA Infrastructure and coordinated by HNA Design and the China Building Centre (CBC), inviting ten global architecture firms such as Foster + Partners, UNStudio, Carlos Ferrater, and Morphosis. The jury, including Aaron Betsky and Benedetta Tagliabue, praised DS+R's design for its "singular and clear" form that evokes a volcanic caldera, blending naturally into the landscape while efficiently integrating logistics among resorts, commercial areas, and accommodations. DS+R's recent notable projects include The Broad Museum and the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive in California.