Kapok Walk
Nestled within Yunluo Botanical Garden is Kapok Walk, a 1.2-kilometre-long, barrier-free treetop walkway designed by CPG Consultants (Singapore and Shanghai) in collaboration with the Guangzhou Landscape Architecture Design & Research Institute. The design of the walkway is deeply inspired by the kapok tree, a native species and the official flower of Guangzhou.
Kapok Walk is divided into two sections: the Guangzhou Kapok Walk, and the International Kapok Walk. The Guangzhou Kapok Walk highlights the native red kapok tree, showcasing its seasonal transformations through various elements such as roots, bark, flowers, leaves, pods, and fruits. This allows visitors to appreciate Guangzhou’s city flower from multiple perspectives.
A connecting bridge seamlessly links to the International Kapok Walk, with its design inspired by different species of kapok trees from around the world. Symbolising a maritime Silk Road, the bridge brings together kapok trees from across the globe, creating a harmonious connection.
Project Details
Project country
China
COMPLETION DATE
2024
SERVICES RENDERED
Site Area Planning, Architecture, Landscape Planning
Gross Floor Area
Planning area: 151.2 ha; Kapok Walk：1.2-kilometre-long
Key Features
The White Cloud Pavilion draws inspiration from the blooming red kapok flower, abstractly showcasing its petals, stamens, and sepals to highlight the unique beauty of Guangzhou’s city flower. More than just a scenic viewpoint, it serves as a popular landmark and activity hub, complementing the landscape at the South Gate entrance.
The Red and White Kapok Skywalk adopts an abstract design to depict the contrast between the red flowers and white kapok fibres. Its floral-shaped shaded pavilions provide resting spots while also serving educational purposes. Additionally, the cotton-like seating and net structures offer playful and interactive elements for visitors.
The Rainforest Eye Skywalk is a significant node overlooking the Rainforest Garden, drawing inspiration from the distinctive shape of the kapok pod. Originally designed with a symmetrical layout to represent the gateway to the Rainforest Park, the concept evolved to reflect the natural form of kapok pods, which grow as extensions of branches. As a result, a branching layout was also considered to better integrate with the surrounding natural environment.
Innovative technology
1. Ethylene Tetrafluorethylene (ETFE) structures: Inspired by the delicate form of flower petals and the lightness of kapok fabric, the pavilion adopts a floral shape that evokes both elegance and airiness. ETFE membrane is used extensively for the canopy, forming translucent “petals” that float above the space along with providing a lightweight, durable, and sustainable solution for weather protection and natural light transmission, while addressing occasional strong winds that visit the region. The supporting structure outlines the petal geometry, reinforcing the organic pattern. Integrated water misting nozzles within the structure provide evaporative cooling for visitors while creating a soft, cloud-like mist that resonates with the pavilion’s location near Bai Yun (White Cloud) Mountain.
2. 1.2-kilometre-long continuous ramp system: The walkway features a meandering and spiralling 1.2-kilometre-long continuous ramp system (almost 2km unwound), ensuring universal design access for visitors with disabilities, the aged, and those with baby prams. This thoughtful design element promotes inclusivity and equal access to the gardens.
3. Non-invasive construction: The walkway is constructed using steel stilt structures, minimising the impact on the existing trees, site topography and forested slopes. This approach preserves the natural habitat and reduces the need for excessive grading and excavation.
4. Biomimicry concepts: Kapok Walk’s design incorporates biomimicry concepts inspired by the different parts of the kapok tree and its flowers. The structure’s curves and shapes mimic the natural forms of the tree, creating a harmonious and organic aesthetic.
Night-time illumination:
The Kapok Walk takes on a magical quality at night, with carefully designed illumination that highlights the walkway’s unique features and the surrounding gardens. The night-time lighting enhances the overall experience, creating a breathtaking spectacle that showcases the beauty of the gardens and the Guangzhou city skyline.
Impact:
The Kapok Walk has significantly increased patronage for the gardens, attracting both local and foreign visitors. The innovative design has also contributed to the gardens’ high rating among public spaces in China, showcasing Guangzhou’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive urban design.
Key benefits:
1. Breathtaking views: The elevated walkway offers stunning views of the gardens and the Guangzhou city skyline, creating a unique and memorable experience for visitors.
2. Increased accessibility: The continuous ramp system and accessible design ensure that visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy the gardens.
3. Sustainable design: The use of ETFE structures and non-invasive construction methods minimises the environmental impact of the walkway.
4. Unique aesthetic: The biomimicry-inspired design creates a stunning and immersive experience for visitors, showcasing the beauty of nature and innovative design.
Project Member Quotes
In designing Kapok Walk, we drew inspiration from nature, specifically the kapok tree, a beloved native species of Guangzhou, to create a meaningful public space that is both visually beautiful and functional. Each part of the walk evokes the kapok’s changing form through the seasons, allowing visitors to experience the tree’s unique character along their journey. Projects like this demonstrate the potential of design to shape future spaces that prioritise nature-led sustainability, accessibility, and technical innovation.
Glenn Bontigao
Lead Landscape Architect for Kapok Walk and Senior Principal Landscape Architect, CPG Signature