Ping An Finance Centre
The Ping An Finance Centre was completed in March 2017, becoming the fourth tallest building in the world.
Measuring 599 m (1,965 ft), with 115-storeys, the tower is the tallest in Shenszhen and the second tallest in China. It was built to serve as the headquarters of Ping An Insurance.
Designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates the tower contains state-of-the-art office space above an 11-storey, publically-accessible podium with a multi-storey atrium. The top two storeys contain an observation deck.
Described as having the form of a ‘taught steel cable’, the top of the tower tapers to a prism. Eight composite mega-columns further emphasise the building’s form, anchored to the composite concrete core using steel outriggers. These mega-columns help streamline the structure by extruding beyond the envelope, improving both structural and wind performance. Baseline wind loads are estimated to be reduced by 35% as a result of this design solution.
The tower’s stainless steel façade is the largest in the world to-date, consisting of 1,700 tons of 316L steel, chosen for its corrosion-resistant properties. This is intended to maintain the Centre’s external appearance despite the high salt content of Shenzhen’s coastal atmosphere.
Construction work began in August 2009 and was topped out in April 2015. The original design included a 60 m antenna which would have taken the total height of the building to more than the Shanghai Tower, making it the second tallest in the world. However, in February 2015 this was dropped from the design due to the possible obstruction of flight paths.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
CIOB and CORBON combine forces
To elevate professional standards in Nigeria’s construction industry.
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Heat pumps, vehicle chargers and heating appliances must be sold with smart functionality.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
New-style degrees set for reformed ARB accreditation
Following the ARB Tomorrow's Architects competency outcomes for Architects.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.
Preserving, waterproofing and decorating buildings.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
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.