SEI South Building Renovation Project

About The Entry

The South Building of Sinopec Engineering Incorporation (SEI) in the Asian Games Village has shed its dated past. Once a fragmented workspace, it has been reimagined as a fluid, high-performance environment where industrial logic meets a decorative soul.

The design does more than display the SEI logo; it embodies the brand’s essence by deconstructing the logo’s geometric DNA and weaving it into the building’s textures. This narrative is felt throughout the space—from the intricate, recessed stonework of the lobby to the soaring, tree-like columns that anchor the dining hall. By drawing from the raw beauty of petrochemical plants—specifically the rhythmic mesh of reaction towers and the organized complexity of pipeline networks—the space achieves a modern aesthetic that feels both grounded and sophisticated.

To overcome the limitations of the original structure, the project carves out floor slabs to create a grand, double-height void, transforming the once-cramped entrance into a light-filled, ceremonial hall. The lightwell has been reimagined with a coffered caisson ceiling, complemented by panoramic glass that floods the building’s core with ample natural light. In the dining annex, the design masters a challenging fan-shaped layout, using sculptural columns and curved grilles to soften the geometry and create an immersive, forest-like retreat.

Within the open offices, industrial metallic meshes are used to visually dissolve the ceiling line, making the environment feel taller and airier. The layout moves effortlessly between energy and quietude: glass partitions and pale metallic wall panels, accented by linear lighting, ensure corridors are bright and easily navigable. Strategically placed suspended ceilings delineate functional zones, while undulating grilles and refined screens create semi-private discussion nooks. This delicate balance of open collaboration and quiet focus ensures the space remains entirely responsive to the needs of its occupants.

Sustainability is not an afterthought but the project's foundation. From low-VOC materials and modular partitions to smart lighting and integrated greenery, the design prioritizes micro-climate control and long-term adaptability. By harmonizing ecological responsibility with industrial heritage, the project ensures a healthy, high-efficiency environment where both the company and its employees can thrive.