As urbanization continues to evolve, parcel contexts have become increasingly significant in the design of residential communities. It is crucial to consider the interaction between residential structures and the urban environment, as well as their contribution to the overall streetscape. Yanlord Arcadia, as a pilot implementation of the "Living Community" concept developed by GOA, responds to this concern with creative solutions.

The Yanlord Arcadia sits in the heart of the Binjiang residential corridor in the Yangpu District of Shanghai. Jiangpu Park, a community park, is located to the south, while the Yangshupu Port waterfront landscape belt embraces the eastern site boundary. A metro station is only 500 meters away from an industrial renewal parcel across the river. Although the surrounding elements are diverse, they appear dispersed and disconnected.

Drawing upon the context analysis, the architects adopted an urban design perspective for this project. The design breaks from the conventional practice of enclosing residential communities by limiting borders. It transforms the space along the south and east boundaries into inviting open spaces that create seamless connections between the metro station, park, riverfront, and industrial renewal site, thereby establishing a continuous and cohesive urban interface.

Taking cues from the spatial scales and relationships of Shanghai's lilong, the design of the commercial street in the south resembles an engaging "vertical garden." A dynamic and diverse spatial system is produced by overlapping, interspersing, and collaging small architectural volumes. The east boundary incorporates "subtle interventions" such as "transparent" fences and transitional spaces to enhance spatial vitality.

The four residential blocks in the south offer a variety of homecoming routes. Residents can enter via the elevator hall, which connects to the commercial street, or by taking the scenic route around to the second-floor residential lobby, from which they can access the elevator and directly access the exclusive rooftop gardens. This 3D-integrated circulation system immerses residents in urban vitality while maintaining residential privacy.