Hangzhou Gateway, China
In February 2017, Hangzhou Gateway, a striking new office tower in Hangzhou, China, was completed.
Designed by JDS Architects, the 16-storey building incorporates two massive voids that are cut diagonally through it. The resulting ‘H-shape’ creates a stepped park on top and an arched pathway for pedestrians beneath, linking both sides of the building with a historical market hall, currently undergoing renovation, a public green space.
With a concave plan, the walkway divides the lower floors of the 23,600 sq. m building into two quarter-circle plans.
The main structural supports are provided by two vertical circulation spaces which brace the lower floor plates. These two cores are spanned by the middle floor plates like a simple beam, which creates a stable platform for the upper floors.
On top, the void in the roof creates a green park with a series of stepped terraces, a feature that the architects say is a reference to the ancient Chinese rice-field landscapes. The opening is oriented so as to provide office workers with maximum sunlight and views. The staggered terraces also retain rainwater, which is used to assist with the building’s cooling.
Content and imagery courtesy of JDS Architects.
Photography is by Julien Lanoo.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.
CIOB Client Guide (2nd edition) March 2025
Free download covering statutory dutyholder roles under the Building Safety Act and much more.
Minister quizzed, as responsibility transfers to MHCLG and BSR publishes new building control guidance.
UK environmental regulations reform 2025
Amid wider new approaches to ensure regulators and regulation support growth.
BSRIA Statutory Compliance Inspection Checklist
BG80/2025 now significantly updated to include requirements related to important changes in legislation.