Wang Shu (M) communicates with officials of Xiamen's Haicang district, on Nov 4, 2018. [Photo/sunnews.cn]

The design concept behind the ambitious project to recreate the hallowed precincts of the ancient Jinsha Shuyuan academy in Xiamen, in eastern Fujian province, was unveiled on Jun 11.

Jinsha Shuyuan, an ancient academy built in 1548, was a proof that Xiamen's Haicang district once was a key stop on the ancient Maritime Silk Road.

Zhou Qiyuan, a pioneer in promoting the development of maritime trade in the mid-late period of Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), was a student of the academy.

The ‘new’ Jinsha Shuyuan will be located in the CBD area of Haicang Bay, aiming to create a cultural landmark for both sides of the Taiwan Straits by reactivating historical and cultural elements.

It also carries a mission to demonstrate the culture of the Maritime Silk Road and strengthen the bond between the Chinese mainland and Taiwan.

Wang Shu, designer of the project, spent two years studying the history, culture and development prospects of Haicang.

This design is based on the traditional Minnan (southern Fujian) architectural style, but also integrates modern elements, according to Wang.

"It is a traditional yet innovative design that presents the modern expression of Minnan architecture. It is of both aesthetic value and practical function," said Liu Gong, vice president of Huaqiao University.

Wang Shu is one of the world's top architects. He was awarded the Pritzker Architecture Prize, often referred to as the "Nobel Prize of architecture", in 2012. His works have won many domestic and international awards.