The former 871 Chip Factory was not only a landmark enterprise in Shaoxing but also the cradle of China's integrated circuit industry. As this industry expanded, the factory ceased operations in 2018. In 2024, CR LAND undertook a comprehensive renovation and upgrade, opening a new chapter for the site as “SHAOXING PLACE by MixC” envisioned as an “urban living room”. Located in the heart of Shaoxing’s ancient city with a GFA of approximately 61,000 sqm, the project retains 3 main factory buildings: A, B, and C. Kokaistudios lead the overall urban planning and architecture concept design for SHAOXING PLACE by MixC, the architecture renovation and architectural interior design of Factories A and C, as well as the architecture schematic design of new buildings.

The layout of the 3 preserved factory buildings is relatively dispersed, with a gap of up to 60m between Factories A and B. Additionally, the cleared surroundings resulted in empty spaces that challenge the pedestrian experience. Kokaistudios’ primary task was to reinterpret the massive industrial heritage, in a way that not only improves walkability and circulation but also maintains coherence and integrity across the site.

To increase the project's commercial vibrancy, the East-West main axis has been transformed into a lively high-street, offering an ideal setting for diverse flagship stores, further ensuring SHAOXING PLACE’s commercial value and unique appeal.

The southern facade of Factory A, with its horizontal strip windows and curved staircases, showcases modern architectural elements. The design team preserved these features, transforming the two curved staircases into U-shaped glass towers. Today, these structures serve as a symbolic beacon that evokes memories of the old industrial spirit.

Factory A’s central section originally features a 2,000m2 grid-shaped ventilation floor, creating a closed independent space. Kokaistudios innovatively retained the core section of this feature and introduced a circular corridor around the main structure, connecting it to the core section. As a result, the ventilation floor is transformed into a captivating visual island, serving as a versatile stage for exhibitions and fashion shows, adding value to the commercial space below.

Prior to the renovation, Factory C was a single-story industrial building with a plain facade and a frame structure, significantly differing in height and roof shape from the other two factories. Kokaistudios partially removed the flat roof and added a second floor, incorporating a sloped roof while introducing large skylights to ensure ample natural light.

3 additional villages were constructed, weaving and reinforcing the urban fabric. The design draws inspiration from old factories and divides the large volume into an organic composition of smaller “factory-like” structures. It avoids a singular and monotonous sloped roof, instead employing a method of offsetting to create variations in height. This approach preserves the traditional architectural language while giving the facades a more modern and dynamic appearance.