DPA & DPU Master Plan Project Wins at Urban Design & Architecture Design (UDAD) Awards

Recognised for its application of eco-oriented development (EOD) principles, Shenzhen Dapeng Eastern Tourism Zone (previously, Greater Bay Area Metropolitan Area @ Dapeng Peninsula) by DP Architects (DPA) and DP Urban (DPU) has been recognised with the Gold award at the Urban Design & Architecture Design (UDAD) Awards 2025. Organised by Architecture Press Release (APR), the award celebrates works in the international architecture and design field.

Located at the Dapeng Peninsula in Shenzhen and spanning approximately 240 square kilometres, the planning area for the Shenzhen Dapeng Eastern Tourism Zone consists of diverse natural resources such as mountains, beaches, coastlines, rivers and features with the potential to become a world-class eco-tourism destination. Prioritising ecological conservation and environmental governance, the master plan carefully considers four key factors – resilient environment, sustainable development, integrated urban form, as well as community and cultural integration – in its design.

Situated in an ecologically sensitive area, the project introduces a multi-faceted approach to coastal treatment in its exploration of coastal environment preservation. Ecological enhancements complemented with optimised spaces form a low-impact and sustainable scheme that balances the focus on microclimate with visitor comfort. To further offer a holistic experience for visitors, the project adopts the ‘One Belt, One Spine’ strategy to connect land- and sea-based activities.

Community-inclusive approaches are utilised to create a sharing economy between residents and visitors. These approaches promote active community involvement that allows residents to play a pivotal role in planning and development. The integration of regional IP brands and tourism products also further encourages business collaboration and boosts economic vibrancy for the area.

The master plan’s other achievements include the nomination of the Longqi Bay EOD as a key national ecological and environmental pilot project. Balancing EOD approaches with cultural and tourism initiatives, Shenzhen Dapeng Eastern Tourism Zone is envisioned to be a world-class ecotourism destination and centred on being a resilient, sustainable, integrated and culture-centric destination with a thriving community that unites nature, culture and tourism.

Additionally, the area has been recognised with prestigious titles such as Cittaslow, granted to slower cities that emphasise on finding ways of combining modern technology with traditional lifestyles in modern cities; and is China’s first International Dark Sky Community. Under the International Dark Sky Places (IDSP) program, it certifies cities that are committed to preserving dark skies, in recognition of its significant strides in sustainable development.