On the western outskirts of Chengdu, in the district of Xindu, FeitengLi offers a very different vision of contemporary China. Far from the neon lights and dense urban streets often associated with the city, this architectural complex explores space, geometry and raw material through a striking minimalist aesthetic.
Originally developed as part of the Tianfu Feiteng characteristic village project, the area combines modern urban design with artistic and cultural spaces. What immediately caught my attention during my visit was the strong brutalist influence visible throughout the site. Massive concrete structures, sharp geometric forms and dramatic staircases create an atmosphere that feels both futuristic and timeless.
For this series, I chose to work entirely in black and white. Removing color allowed me to focus on what makes this architecture so fascinating: light, shadow, texture and form. The monochrome treatment emphasizes the contrast between smooth curved surfaces and angular concrete lines, transforming buildings and staircases into almost abstract compositions.
One of the most striking elements was a spiraling concrete staircase illuminated by strong directional light. Seen from different angles, its curves created repeating patterns and deep shadows that constantly changed depending on perspective. The staircase became less an architectural object and more a study of rhythm, geometry and movement.
In FeitengLi, brutalist buildings reflected perfectly in still pools of water, creating symmetrical scenes where reality and reflection almost merged together. Against dramatic cloudy skies, the sharp lines and heavy concrete structures conveyed a sense of strength and silence rarely found in modern urban environments.
Location : FeiTengLi, Xindu, Chengdu, Sichuan province, China
Camera :
• Nikon Z5
• Nikon Z6 III
Lens :
• Nikon 14-24mm F/2.8
• Nikon 24-120mm Z f/4
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