Construction has commenced on Foster + Partners' first project in Hangzhou, China, with a sustainable, landmark headquarters tower for CITIC Bank. The 100-metre-high skyscrapers bold diagonally-braced structure will establish an iconic presence for the Bank in a prominent location on a main axis through Hangzhou Qian Jiang New City, a new central business district being constructed next to the Qian Jiang River.
The tower is characterised by a striking geometric form the facade is pulled inwards near the base to form a symmetrical V-shape across the south-facing elevation. Wrapped in a bronze-coloured diagrid lattice, the floor plates widen as the tower rises, expanding to provide panoramic views of the river and the surrounding public plaza. The design maximises the available area within a compact rectilinear footprint, while respecting views of neighbouring structures.
Resonating with elements of traditional Chinese culture, the towers form draws inspiration from the shape of the ancient dou or ding vessel, a traditional symbol of wealth, dignity and stability.
At the base of the tower, a 30-metre-high A-frame canopy stretches 72 metres across the ground floor to create a dramatic entrance experience. This leads to the heart of a diamond-shaped central atrium, which rises up through the full height of the 20-storey tower and helps to encourage natural ventilation during the mid-seasons.
Tiered sky-gardens line the perimeter of the upper floors and a generous winter garden with a mezzanine level accommodates VIP club and meeting spaces at the top of the building. The tower will be naturally ventilated for part of the year, grey water will be recycled and local materials utilised where possible to reduce embodied energy.
