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| CITIC Bank's new headquarters tower in Hangzhou breaks ground  Construction has commenced on Foster + Partners first project in Hangzhou, China, with a sustainable, landmark headquarters tower for CITIC Bank. The 100-metre-high skyscraper's bold diagonally-braced structure will establish an iconic presence for the Bank in a prominent location on a main axis through Hangzhou Qian Jiang New City, a new central business district being constructed next to the Qian Jiang River.Resonating with elements of traditional Chinese culture, the tower's form draws inspiration from the shape of the ancient 'dou' or 'ding' vessel, a traditional symbol of wealth, dignity and stability. At the base of the tower, a 30-metre-high A-frame canopy stretches 72 metres across the ground floor to create a dramatic entrance experience. This leads to the heart of a diamond-shaped central atrium, which rises up through the full height of the 20-storey tower and helps to encourage natural ventilation during the mid-seasons. Tiered sky-gardens line the perimeter of the upper floors and a generous winter garden with a mezzanine level accommodates VIP club and meeting spaces at the top of the building. The tower will be naturally ventilated for part of the year, grey water will be recycled and local materials utilised where possible to reduce embodied energy. write your comments about the article :: © 2011 Construction News :: home page |