The design began with rethinking the "expressway service area" typology. Challenging the conventional belief that these structures should solely serve functional purposes, the architects advocated for vibrant, multifunctional hubs that embrace and showcase diverse regional cultures.

Jiaxing Service Area displays the city's regional identity in a modern and symbolic manner within the highway landscape. It is separated into two distinct structures on the northern and southern sides of the expressway. The north building embodies a "Rippling Mirror," while the south represents a "Futuristic Vessel, together evoking the "water and ship" symbolism of Jiaxing culture.

This asymmetrical design departs from conventional approaches and assists travelers in identifying their directions. The façade of the south building exudes a futuristic aesthetic with its three-dimensional modular stainless-steel sheets. In contrast, the north building showcases undulating polycarbonate sheets on the exterior and concrete panels on the open ground floor ceiling, creating a design reminiscent of the waves on South Lake.

The design provides users a fresh and captivating journey by redefining elements such as the parking experience, public scenarios, and travel memories. It raises the main functional spaces to the second and third floors while utilizing the ground floor for parking, maximizing the use of the limited land area. In the humid subtropical climate of Jiangnan, this sheltered ground floor provides a more comfortable environment for drivers and passengers.

The entrance lobby is centrally located on the open ground level, and complemented by a three-story atrium featuring sleek escalators, including a direct connection to the third floor. This design caters to various travel scenarios and time constraints, offering travelers convenient options. Those in a rush can quickly access the restrooms, restaurants, and ground-floor exit using the cross-floor escalator.