1.1K 
A metropolis that already boasts ten supertalls with 20 more under construction and proposed, Shenzhen's skyscraper development is a picture-perfect embodiment of the vertical growth that now defines China's biggest cities. With space at a premium, Shenzhen has taken ambitious steps to create developable lots by building on reclaimed land, allowing for the birth of entirely new neighbourhoods. To that end, a cluster of highrises is taking shape in Houhai across Shenzhen Bay on land that didn't exist before 2005.
The One Shenzhen Bay master plan involves several towers huddled around a central public park. In pushing the built aspects of the development to the perimeter, the project avoids the sense of isolated and singular point towers, instead creating a cohesive pedestrian-friendly street wall. The arrangement also opens up views to the green space which, in another configuration, would likely be blocked by the neighbouring skyscrapers.
The tallest building in the development is rising at the southern edge of the property. The 71-storey, 341-metre building by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates architecturally responds to its interior functions. The profile of the tower diminishes as the program changes — large floor plates at the base permit flexible office spaces while the narrowing floor plate makes residential uses more appropriate at the top.
A number of exterior interventions seek to enhance the environmental performance of the building. High-reflectivity curtain wall optimizes energy usage and fins on the east and west facades provide shade from the sun. The north and south elevations are equipped with horizontal projections to allow for natural ventilation while limiting solar heat gain. As the building approaches its estimated 2018 delivery date, the development as a whole has already garnered international recognition. The esteemed project won big at the Cityscape Global Awards in 2015, a symposium that celebrates excellence in real estate development and architecture.
Additional information can be found in the Database file linked below. Want to get involved in the discussion or share your photos? Check out the associated Forum thread or leave a comment at the bottom of this page.
