Design and engineering firm Atkins has been commissioned by the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) to design a series of new office buildings in Guanzhou. Their proposed design takes the form of three independent buildings, two of which form large, window-like structures. With a working title “Window of Guangzhou,” these buildings will commemorate the city’s history as the first Chinese port city opened to international trade along China’s legendary Silk Road.
The very shape of the building complex represents Guangzhou’s significance. The three towers, situated along the Zhujiang River, appear to read as “001,” indicating the city’s trade history. The CCCC’s project manager, Shu Gang, stated “Atkins’ design concept demonstrates the importance of Guangzhou as a gateway to China for the world. The window-shaped buildings promote the city’s image as an important location for China’s import and export business.”
The window shapes of the project are also functional, in that they do not block views of the river for buildings situated behind them. All three of the structures are designed to maximize ventilation and shading to offset the humidity of southern China.
The Window of Guangzhou is expected to be completed in 2018.