As part of its development in China, Arte Charpentier took part in several meetings in Beijing and Chengdu focused on the challenges of urban renewal. These exchanges strengthen the agency’s presence and open the door to new collaborations.
Recognized expertise in Beijing and Chengdu
Amid an intensifying momentum of Franco-Chinese exchanges, Arte Charpentier was invited to several major institutional events in Beijing and Chengdu. During the Expert Seminar Week on Urban Renewal in the Haidian District of Beijing, the agency stood out as the only foreign design practice invited to speak alongside prominent figures in Chinese urban planning.
Pan Mingding, Regional Director and Associate Architect, delivered a lecture entitled “Franco-Chinese Practices Compared at All Scales: Complex Urban Renewal and Zero-Carbon Buildings”, highlighting Arte Charpentier’s human-centered approach to urban transformation and its commitment to carbon neutrality. His talk was part of a high-level program featuring speakers such as Zhang Jie, professor at Tsinghua University, and Tian Li, a specialist in societal dynamics in megacities.
A growing presence in Southwest China
Building on the recognition gained in Beijing, Arte Charpentier continued its strategic outreach in Chengdu, an emerging economic hub in Southwest China. The agency was warmly received by two major institutions: China Southwest Architecture, one of the country’s largest architectural firms, and the China Southwest Geotechnical Investigation & Design Institute.
In Chengdu, MPA and JKE presented Arte Charpentier’s approach to urban renewal and sustainable architecture to an audience of 240 professionals. The discussions revealed strong interest in European design practices, seen as a promising direction for the future of the Chinese market. Talks are currently underway to establish a strategic cooperation agreement.
Perspectives for long-term collaboration
Following the meetings, both institutions expressed a clear intention to develop long-term partnerships with Arte Charpentier. The China Southwest Geotechnical Institute even proposed to host a dedicated studio within its architecture department—an opportunity that would support a sustainable and local presence.
These encounters reflect the growing appeal of Arte Charpentier’s integrated approach to urban planning, architecture, and landscape in China. They lay the groundwork for ambitious new collaborations in the context of the country’s ongoing urban transformation.
