Foster + Partners designs new urban district around Shanghai temple and rail station

Foster + Partners has been selected via a competition to design a major urban masterplan in Shanghai’s Putuo District. The 8-square-mile scheme will focus on revitalizing three key areas: the Shanghai West Railway Station precinct, the historic Zhenru Temple zone, and a large undeveloped site at the district’s core.

Central to the master plan are two pedestrian corridors designed to enhance connectivity and community engagement. Meanwhile, the railway station zone will be transformed with a new park, public plaza, and elevated walkways connecting to surrounding neighborhoods. A multimodal transport hub will unite travel links, supported by underground pedestrian access to nearby corridors.

Around Zhenru Temple, the scheme seeks to reinforce the area’s cultural axis, introducing new public spaces, cultural buildings, and restored shopfronts. A nearby site will host a mix of residential, office, retail, and sports facilities, anchored by a new mixed-use tower. An elevated treetop walk will connect the urban elements.