Architecture, Building and Structure Design Thriving Renovation and Gate by Shimu Wang Thriving is a facade renovation of two teaching buildings and a new school gate in Taiyuan, China. Aluminum panels finished with bright paint add rhythm to the elevations and conceal outdoor equipment and cables. The gate stands 14.7 meters high and connects the two buildings of different heights, framing the view of the main campus building. Mirror stainless steel panels clad the main steel structure, while slender columns of stainless steel pipe with silver paint reduce the visual mass. The mirrored soffit makes the gate appear taller and suggests growth.