The key facts
- Hetao Alpha in Shenzhen: eastern wing has 37 floors, western wing 44, total office area 70,410 sq. m
- The shape of the wings is created by cantilevers projecting from the central core
- The facade includes ventilation slots and sun-protection louvres to reduce energy consumption
Butterfly skyscraper in Shenzhen
A 212-meter skyscraper called Hetao Alpha, featuring a distinctive butterfly shape, has been completed in Shenzhen. This is reported by Kun.uz citing the design firm RSHP. The building consists of two main parts: an eastern wing with 37 floors and a western wing with 44 floors. They are joined by a central core that serves as the primary load-bearing element, while the lower part of the complex houses a multifunctional public block.
Structural solutions
The sloping silhouette of the wings is achieved through cantilevered elements that project outward from both sides of the central concrete core. The total office space of the complex amounts to 70,410 square meters. To increase the building's stability, large trussed support structures are installed every 12 floors; they are placed on levels designated for technical rooms and evacuation zones. This solution allows the office floors to retain an open, free-plan layout.
Glass facade and views
The facade is fully clad in glass: combined with the open office layout, this gives employees an almost unobstructed view of the city. At the four corners of the wings, curved glass surfaces two stories high are used, each oriented toward specific panoramas: on the western side, the wetlands of Shenzhen Bay are visible, and on the southern side, the Mai Po nature reserve in Hong Kong. The elevator shafts are located in the central part of the building along the northern and southern facades and are also fully glazed, so passengers can watch the surrounding scenery while moving between floors.
Natural ventilation
Special attention in the project is given to natural ventilation. Special slots for air intake are built into the glass sections of the facade, and louvre panels are installed for sun protection. According to the publication, these solutions ensure air circulation in the premises and help reduce energy consumption.
