- The S.ARCH International Architecture Awards recognises excellence in architecture and urbanism, architectural diversity, and exemplary sustainable architecture implementations of projects and structures around the world. Particular attention is given to building/design schemes that use local resources and innovative design solutions. "This award is such an honour for us, especially given the focus is on sustainable architecture. This is something very close to our hearts and our design philosophy at Lead8. Accepting this award for a project in Shenzhen, China, here in the heart of beautiful Havana, is also gratifying," said Co Founder and Executive Director, Claude Touikan, who accepted the award on behalf of all of Lead8 in Havana, Cuba on 6 March, 2019. Located in a new financial district in Shenzhen, China, Qianhai Guanze is a 420,000 sqm mixed-use development overlooking the Shenzhen River waterfront, integrating two Class A office towers, a five-star hotel, 50,000 sqm of retail mall and two serviced apartment buildings. Lead8 helmed the project masterplanning, retail architecture, interior design and serviced apartments' facade, in collaboration with developer Horoy Holdings. Goetssch Partners (GP), is directing the architectural design for the two office towers and the hotel. The holistic design is the creation of a dynamic, highly visible landmark for the city. The project vision is to create a new urban destination with alternative outdoor experiences, retail and commercial activities for the community. Embracing the city's commitment to green design, Qianhai Guanze mixed-use development is driven by the concept of 'Town-within-a-Garden', and manifests in the form of a public urban park that helps to reconnect people with nature, while functioning as a green community asset. Green roofs and walkways, garden spaces and landscaped plazas connect pedestrians with the outdoor environment and to the public transportation system, as well as to adjacent sites and neighbouring developments. The five-level retail podium, connecting the office and residential towers, acts to anchor the development. "Qianhai Guanze mixed-use development creates a forward-looking identity for this new financial district," said David Buffonge, Co Founder and Executive Director of Lead8. "Its prominent location along Qianhai's green belt makes the development an inspiring urban environment for living, entertaining and work in Shenzhen. We are pleased to play a part in creating this unique development that will encourage interaction between people across different spaces." Qianhai Guanze mixed-use development is designed with an emphasis on the outdoor environment and connected living, and is due for completion in 2020. About Lead8Lead8 is an international architecture and design practice driven by creativity, integrity and excellence in design. We are a diverse, passionate group of architects and creative explorers who take pride in the global experience of our staff, spread across our studios around the world. We create new horizons in design thinking, delivering bespoke masterplanning, architecture, interiors, and graphic design services to create world-class, cutting-edge design solutions tailored to the needs of our clients and the communities we impact. Constantly striving towards greater creativity and innovation makes us agile, savvy and ever relevant in the global marketplace. Visit www.lead8.com for more information.All images©Lead8 International Limited High-Res Files Available on Request Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/839167/Lead8_Qianhai_Guanze_Central_Courtyard_Aerial_View.jpgPhoto - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/839168/Lead8_Qianhai_Guanze_Main_retail_entrance.jpg