07 Mar 2019
Megatall complex with world's highest sky park inches closer to completion in China
BY Andrew Manns
Work on the Raffles City Chongquing – a megatall mixed-use destination taking shape on the shores of the Yangtze River – is set to come to a close this year.
Once complete, the Moshe Safdie-designed complex, which is being developed by Chinese real estate company CapitaLand, will feature multiple plazas and terraces, 1,400 residential apartments, an InterContinental hotel, a 5,600 sq m multiplex, a 235,000 sq m shopping mall, and a 250-metre sky park – reportedly the highest in the world.
The 9.2-acre site, the concept for which was inspired by Chinese sailing vessels, will also play host to a number of recreational amenities, including an infinity pool, an observation deck, and various dining outlets.
Speaking on the function of the recently constructed sky park – also known as "the Crystal" – Safdie Architects said it "represents a new typology of building, acting not only as a connector but as a fully programmed horizontal structure complete with internal streets, building program and gardens".
In a statement, Lucas Loh, president of CapitaLand Group, commented: "After six years of construction using state-of-the-art engineering technologies, we are proud to present in Raffles City Chongqing an iconic architectural form resembling a powerful sail surging forward on the historic Chaotianmen site.
"Conceived as a landmark urban renewal project to power generations of economic growth, the megastructure is on track to set sail with Chongqing's global city ambitions from 2H 2019."
Structural engineering for the property was provided by ARUP, while Williams, Asselin, Ackaoui & Associates led the landscaping team.
P & T Group International served as the executive architect.
The centre – one of 10 Raffles City properties – will be the largest building in CapitaLand's portfolio.
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