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VIASCAPE design completes Happy Spot under Light Rail in Shanghai

architecture-design · 2026-05-06

In Shanghai, VIASCAPE design has finalized 'the Happy Spot under the Light Rail,' a revitalization project situated beneath the metro viaduct. This initiative marks the second phase of a broader urban renewal strategy surrounding the Caoxi Road Metro Station, which began in spring 2022. The initial phase, known as 'Caoxi Road Pocket Park,' was completed in late 2023. Designed in December 2023, the second phase spans 3,540 m² and was constructed by March 2025. Leading the architectural team is Sun Yijia, alongside MA Li, Ji Yuwei, and ZHOU Mi. The project is overseen by the Xuhui District Greening Administration, with supervision from the Xuhui District Greening and City Appearance Administration Bureau and Caohejing. Shanghai Greening-Landscaping Construction Co., Ltd serves as the LDI, while Shanghai Xuhui Landscape Development Co., Ltd is the contractor, with photography by Shan Liang. The comprehensive renewal plan seeks to rejuvenate a deteriorated section of Shanghai's urban center through gradual, phased enhancements, incorporating spatial improvements aligned with functional modifications of the metro station and surrounding areas.

Key facts

  • Project named 'the Happy Spot under the Light Rail'
  • Designed by VIASCAPE design
  • Second phase of Caoxi Rd. Metro Station area renewal
  • First phase 'Caoxi Road Pocket Park' built in late 2023
  • Second phase designed Dec 2023, constructed by Mar 2025
  • Area: 3,540 m²
  • Lead architect: Sun Yijia
  • Client: Xuhui District Greening Administration
  • Photographer: Shan Liang

Entities

Artists

  • Sun Yijia
  • MA Li
  • Ji Yuwei
  • ZHOU Mi

Institutions

  • VIASCAPE design
  • Xuhui District Greening Administration
  • Xuhui District Greening and City Appearance Administration Bureau
  • Caohejing
  • Shanghai Greening-Landscaping Construction Co., Ltd
  • Shanghai Xuhui Landscape Development Co., Ltd

Locations

  • Shanghai
  • China
  • Caoxi Rd. Metro Station

Sources