Grimshaw adds another transportation hub to their portfolio after being selected as winners of an international competition for Shenzhen Airport East Integrated Transport Hub. Sponsored by the China National Railway Corporation Limited and Shenzhen Municipal People's Government, the winning proposal answered the brief's call for "an aspirational vision to create an integrated intermodal transport hub to act as a new urban gateway and landmark for the Greater Bay Area." 

Aiding in the transportation of a thousand daily commuters, Grimshaw shares the proposal will provide "effortless transfers" between public transport and high-speed rail. Said to be an effective hub, the design connects terminals and terminal facilities for those traveling in and out of Shenzhen's Bao'an International Airport.  

The team shares the transport hub's design was inspired by the Mangrove tree found in Shenzhen. "The natural form of the tree's diverse root eco-system, which thrives where waterways converge, inspired the journey passengers will take, both above and below ground, landside and airside, while its bio-diversity will be in harmony with the hub's exciting mix of uses." Grimshaw adds, the tree's significance and importance to the city also stem from its carbon absorption abilities. 

Along with Grimshaw, the winning design team includes schlaich bergermann partner (sbp), Atelier Ten, and GROSS.MAX. Landscape Architects. Grimshaw partner Jolyon Brewis shares, "We are often inspired by the transfer of geometries and forms from nature into architecture. We have applied this approach to the master plan and interchange design at Shenzhen Bao'an Airport, which is directly inspired by the mangrove tree. Not only does this have symbolic value as an important tree to Shenzhen, but it has led us to a solution for the building that is highly efficient. It will also be a wonderful place for people to occupy and travel through. We hope it will lift the spirits of millions of Shenzhen citizens, as well as those who visit this incredible city."