Pazhou is a fundamental economic development zone in Guangzhou. Aedas Global Design Principal Ken Wai has designed the Haihao International Building, a 172-meter mixed-use skyscraper that will serve as an exemplary commercial live-work development in the city.
The project is in western Pazhou, adjacent to the district’s green axis and main roads. It has good access to the metro and public transport facilities. The area is governed by stringent urban planning design guidelines that ensure multi-level access connected to the basement and above ground via link bridges.
The design of the Haihao International Building is a celebration of Chinese landscape painting, with elements that emphasise ‘mountains, ridges, waterfalls, and paths’. This concept is reflected in the public stairs on the podium, linking a public footbridge and the roof of the podium garden to create a new public space for the city. This gesture not only highlights the corporate social responsibility of the building owner, but also connects the building to its cultural roots. This public space will be used for recreational and educational purposes, further enriching the building's cultural significance.
The rectangular building was designed with a high floor plan efficiency. The jagged outline of the façade defines its architectural character. Openable vents are integrated on each side of the curtain wall façade module to provide natural ventilation. This innovative design ensures a comfortable indoor environment and gives the tower a distinctive presence in the city, leaving a lasting impression on all who see it. The sustainable functionality of the building has won triple green building certifications, three-star green building, LEED and WELL.
The façade transforms into a mega-curved glass structure at the bottom of the building, where the entrance lobby and headquarters offices are situated. This design evokes the appearance of ‘falling water’, reflecting light and creating a distorted view of the surrounding cityscape.
The building includes retail and headquarters offices in the podium and offices and serviced apartments in the tower. Residents have separate entry points at the ground level and can enjoy a luxury private garden and clubhouse lobby halfway up the tower. Most apartment units are served by private lifts, with direct entry to individual units through a sky lobby.
‘Our goal is to craft a work of urban art that mirrors a vibrant photo collage of the city, providing enjoyment for the public.’ Ken says.
