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A bold proposal for a compact property in Shenzhen implements deconstructivist design elements to negotiate its strict boundaries. Bordered by several highrises, a park, and a major thoroughfare, the OCT Tower integrates urbanism and contemporary architecture with the surrounding landscape.
Designed by Studio Link-Arc, Kane A|UD and ATLV for the OCT Group, the project soars over 60 storeys high. At 300 metres, the project will join the ranks of Shenzhen's other striking supertalls, including the 600-metre Ping An Finance Centre. A maze of large pillars lifts the tower from the podium below, allowing daylight to shine through to the commercial portion of the project. The sweeping podium roof and its landscaped gardens function as a public feature which extends across to the neighbouring Hantang plaza to create a dynamic entryway.
The office lobby is positioned on top of this space, its gleaming glass windows providing a glimpse into the tower's uses. Gardens extending up the south facade of the building provide an additional amenity space for workers. They double as environmental measures, supplying shade in the summer and warmth in the winter. Sky lobbies situated at different heights accent the tower and set aside dedicated meeting and lounging spaces.
A metal mesh shade system, arranged horizontally and vertically, will be attached to the south facade to reduce solar heat gain and improve environmental performance. A clubhouse and interior garden will offer panoramic views of the city from the top floor. A restaurant located on the lower levels of the clubhouse opens up these views to the public.
The current scheme is the result of a design competition. A previous proposal by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates surfaced three years ago, but it seems that design is not moving forward. The excavated pit at the location awaits the tower, which you can see from other angles in the additional images found in our Database file linked below. Want to get involved in the discussion? Check out the associated Forum thread or leave a comment at the bottom of this page.
