In Baoding City, Hebei Province, old industrial areas are being revitalized into vibrant new urban destinations. A prime example is the D19 Block, located in the city's Jingxiu District. Here, trendy graffiti covers weathered red-brick walls, and a massive 600-square-meter naked-eye 3D screen, the largest of its kind in Hebei Province, displays dynamic visuals, creating a unique blend of industrial heritage and youthful energy.
Situated in western Baoding, the D19 Block is a key urban renewal project actively promoted by Jingxiu District. The development repurposes the old factory buildings of 19 former village-run enterprises from the water mill area of Xiezhuang Township. Coordinated and planned by a district-owned state platform company, the area has successfully transformed from a derelict industrial site into a fashionable hotspot.
The naming of "D19" is symbolic. The "D" stands for "Discovery," while the "19" carries multiple meanings: it references the core age demographic for esports, the original 19 factory courtyards, the 19 planned business formats within the block, and also signifies the 19 universities located within Baoding City.
Public reception has been highly positive. Visitors, particularly young students, express excitement about the transformation. "Who would have thought old factories could become such a cool spot for photos? Every shot looks amazing," said one university student after recording his visit. Social media platforms are filled with similar praise, with users commenting on the area's unique time-tunnel vibe, its ability to ignite trendy passions, and the endless surprises found in its mix of intangible cultural heritage crafts and modern esports entertainment.
Since its opening, the D19 Block has attracted an average daily foot traffic of three to four thousand people. During holidays or special events, this number can surge to six or seven thousand. The bustling commercial activity has not only created local employment opportunities but has also stimulated growth in surrounding businesses, transportation, and related industries, contributing significantly to regional economic development.
The success of D19 is not an isolated case. Jingxiu District has adopted a strategy combining planning guidance, service support, and market-oriented operations to effectively repurpose idle industrial spaces. This approach preserves the city's industrial memory while injecting new functionality and value into aging structures.
Another successful project is the Baihua 1970 Sports and Cultural Park, also located in Jingxiu District. Its predecessor was the railway transformer factory of China Railway Electrification Engineering Group. After fulfilling its original purpose, the site fell into disuse. Today, it thrives with various themed sports venues and culinary establishments, pulsating with new commercial and leisure vitality.
The park's core focus is the sports economy. Existing old factory buildings have been renovated to accommodate over 50 sports facilities, trendy entertainment spots, restaurants, and supermarkets. The architectural exterior along the streets features a simple, rhythmic red-brick style. Variations in the facade masonry and detailed decorations recreate the solidity and order characteristic of the industrial era.
The renovation philosophy emphasizes preserving the original character. Key structural elements like trusses from the old factories have been retained and exposed, becoming integral parts of the spatial narrative. Modern materials are used for floors and walls in a collage-like manner, meeting new functional requirements while maintaining a connection to the original industrial heritage.
Looking ahead, Jingxiu District plans to integrate concepts from the International Garden Cities initiative into its urban renewal efforts. The focus will be on continuously improving supporting facilities and optimizing layouts. The goal is to renew and utilize more old residential communities and industrial relics, allowing the city to enhance its quality of life while retaining its historical depth.