Taking as its philosophy “To study the world, to explore the way ahead, to learn through experience the order of things, and to govern wisely with sound statecraft”, the the Institute for International Affairs strives to be a think tank of strategic importance in academic and policy research. Based in Shenzhen, it will provide insightful and timely policy analysis and consultancy for the central as well as the local government, and train outstanding talents to take on a nuanced national and a global perspective. It seeks to become an international academic platform with profound global influence, in research fields including the Greater Bay Area integration, the South China common market, China’s reform and opening up, maritime economics, international strategy and affairs, and global development.
The creativity, thinking ability, and domain expertise of researchers remain the core of scientific research. Communication is crucial for researchers. It promotes knowledge sharing, academic collaboration, feedback, and discussion, as well as the development of interdisciplinary cooperation and innovation.

In the office design of the sixth floor of the research institute, multiple ways can be used to connect different floors to promote flow and communication between employees and visitors.
Entering the second floor lobby from outdoor plaza we designed a large steps for seating. We demolished some of the slab of the third floors and added a curve staircase to connect. These connections can provide additional communication space, allowing employees to quickly communicate and collaborate when moving across floors.
The four to six floors used to be outdoor corridors surrounded by circles around the courtyard garden. We wrapped the corridors with glass curtain walls, allowing people to rest and work directly by the window and enjoy the courtyard landscape. This can also promote visual connection and communication between different floors, allowing employees to have a clear view of the situation on other floors, enhancing their willingness to communicate and cooperate.


In the library design, it is very important to focus on the design of reading and communication spaces, as these spaces are places for readers to learn, think, and communicate. The layout of the reading area has been uniquely designed to provide various types of seats that complement the landscape and architectural structure, such as comfortable sofas, spacious tables, and window seats. Ensure seat comfort to encourage readers to stay for long periods of time and focus on reading.
There are perforated panels for shading outside the building windows, making full use of natural light and increasing sunlight entry through the design of large windows. Natural lighting not only provides a comfortable environment, but also helps reduce eye fatigue and improve work efficiency.


On the other side of the garden, a bar is set up, which brings many positive effects and enhances the employee experience. Setting up a bar in the office can enhance the work experience of employees, promote teamwork and communication, create a social atmosphere, promote healthy lifestyles, enhance employee welfare, and provide diverse workplace choices.
The bar also offers diverse workplace options: sometimes employees need to change environments for brainstorming, creative thinking, or independent work. The bar provides a different choice from traditional office areas, allowing employees to switch work modes as needed.
Project area: 7000 sqm
Design team: Tony Fan, Olivia Li, Yang Zhenwei, Steve Lu, Liang Tongtong, Li Yong, Liang Wenliang, Du Hanhua

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