The Vanke Times Centre in Beijing, has reopened after an extensive refurbishment by architects Schmidt Hammer Lassen (SHL), part of Perkins + Will. The new space includes retail, art installations, exhibition space and a bamboo meditation garden, as well as extensive office space on the upper floors. The architects have acted with public leisure in mind, adding elements such as the meditation garden, which is open to the public. Chris

Architecture competition organiser Bee Breeders have revealed the winners of its latest challenge: a task to design a meditation and wellness camp in one of Latvia’s most remote regions. The Stone Barn Meditation Camp competition sought to create a refuge for individuals amid “the pristine natural beauty” of Vidzeme, eastern Latvia – which is surrounded by forests, lakes and grasslands. Entries were received from across the work. Ultimately, Ukrainian practice

Thirty years after it first opened, Center Parcs has unveiled its new Forest Spa concept at its 1,500sq m (16,146sq ft) Sherwood Forest location in England, showcasing 26 new spa experiences in a completely redesigned two-storey spa. “This is not just a refurbishment, but an evolution of our brand,” said Sue Goddard, group leisure manager. “We don’t want to wait until our spa concept shows its age – we want

Vietnamese architect Vo Trong Nghia has told CLAD that real estate developers must push for green design practices if human beings are to survive and prosper. Nghia – who is best known for his intricate bamboo leisure buildings – said humans have become too disconnected from nature, “causing conflict, wars and the destruction of the planet." “Capitalism always requires development, but development needs a lot of energy,” he said. “If