In 2005, most of the southern area of Chengdu County was farmland, rolling hills and forests. With the relocation of Chengdu’s city hall to the south, growth from the city center was headed there, though much of the land was currently undeveloped and unplanned.  With the economic boom in the region and impending wave of urbanization, the need became apparent for a southern satellite center to meet the demands of Chengdu’s international business community.  A 4200+ acre site along the major north-south highway became the logical location for such a new district.

The Planning concept for Luxe Lakes proposes that selected valleys are converted to lakes and adjoining rolling hills are made available for development.  This allows development to have water access and attractive water views.  The plan aims to balance urban development with environmental protection, with nearly 70% of the land area set aside for open space, including parks, forest preserves, existing orchards, and water ways including lakes and canals.  The remaining land area would be used for a mixed-use town center, housing, offices for creative industry, an arts village, schools and a university, and a resort district.  Research incubator start-ups and small production facilities are located adjacent to the university labs, classrooms, and researcher housing. The educational system becomes integrated with private industry and includes the opportunity for life-long learning experiences.