Architecture20: World's largest building in Chengdu, China

Immense New Century Global Centre completes in Dayuan Area of Chengdu

The world’s largest building in terms of floor space has been completed in Chengdu. New Century Global Center by the Exhibition and Travel Group is currently undergoing testing prior to an official opening. With two underground levels and 18 storeys above ground, the building has been designed under an oceanic theme with inspiration found in ‘floating whales’ and ‘flying seabirds’.

In the first phase, the East District and Central District of the Global Center were constructed alongside the Central Plaza and a series of underground commercial squares and parking lots, totalling 1,268,000 sq m. The second phase included the construction of a West District of 492,000 sq m including commercial and office facilities and additional underground parking. The construction area of the completed scheme is 1,760,000 sq m - 1,176,000 sq m above ground and 584,000 sq m underground.

The record-breaking development has been recognised by some as a city in itself, having incorporated office units, hotels, catering and leisure amenities, a central plaza, park, underground and above ground commercial options, parking and a large artificial beach.

The New Century Global Center has been split into five specific areas: Paradise Island Ocean Park (250,000 sq m); New Century Shopping Center (300,000 sq m); Central Business Park (720,000 sq m); Intercontinental Crowne Plaza Hotel (over 1,000 guest rooms); and a Mediterranean-style Commercial Town.

The construction of the New Century Contemporary Art Center (180,000 sq m) designed by Zaha Hadid Architects as part of this expansive development is underway and, once completed, this sculptural addition to the project site will include a grand theatre capable of seating 2,000 spectators, a 1,000-capacity theatre, an equal-size music hall, a 8,000 sq m multi-functional meeting room, a 12,000 sq m exhibition hall and a 30,000 sq m contemporary art gallery.

While visitors wait for this swirling white mass to complete, they can entertain themselves with the 5,000 sq m artificial sandy beach within the New Century Global Center complex, complete with 7,000 sq m seaside wooden docking station and 400m ‘coastline’. There is also a substantial LED screen, its 150m by 40m display projecting an image of the ocean.

The ground floor of Chengdu Metro Line Ocean Park Station is also undergoing trials to ensure that it is fit for the expected influx of visitors. Also completed with an ‘Underwater World’ theme, the metro station is decorated in blue and white hues with tropical fish patterns throughout. Visitors will be able to exit the station directly into areas they wish to visit, including the Paradise Island Ocean Park, Central Business Park and Global Mall.

source : worldarchitecturenews.com