Dezeen Magazine

Farrells to masterplan two sites in Shenzhen's Qianhai financial district

News: architecture firm Farrells has won a competition to masterplan two major commercial sites in the growing Qianhai special economic zone in Shenzhen, China, with plans that include a 320-metre skyscraper.

Farrells to masterplan two sites in Shenzhen's Qianhai finanical district

The firm led by British architect Terry Farrell will oversee the development of two key sites surrounding the Qianhaiwan metro station, which are expected to play a key role in boosting cross-border trade between Shenzhen and Hong Kong.

Farrells to masterplan two sites in Shenzhen's Qianhai finanical district

The first of the two masterplans will provide over 460,000 square-metres of commercial floorspace, including offices, shops, serviced apartments and luxury homes. A 320-metre skyscraper will be built as part of the proposals, alongside a pair of 185-metre gateway towers.

Farrells to masterplan two sites in Shenzhen's Qianhai finanical district
Ground-level activity

Terry Farrell said: "This project represents a great opportunity to bring sustainable design principles to this dynamic and rapidly expanding part of Shenzhen."

Farrells to masterplan two sites in Shenzhen's Qianhai finanical district
Ground-level activity

"The proximity of the area to Hong Kong is important and Qianhai will benefit from cross border trade to soon become a thriving district in its own right," he added.

Farrells to masterplan two sites in Shenzhen's Qianhai finanical district
Landmark tower section

Farrell set up offices in Hong Kong and Shanghai following a growing workload in Asia that began with the Peak Tower in the early 1990s. The architect completed Shenzhen's tallest building in 2011 - the 442-metre Kingkey 100 skyscraper.

Farrells to masterplan two sites in Shenzhen's Qianhai finanical district
Landmark tower lobby detail