The One Shenzhen Bay master plan is located on reclaimed land that did not exist prior to 2005, in the newly created district of Houhai across Shenzhen Bay from the city’s central business district. The development is unique in that, unlike many recent master plans in China, all towers are pushed to the perimeter of the site in order to surround an open public park space. The intentions behind this are multiple – the towers border the street, creating an urban street wall. The massing simultaneously encourages a more pedestrian experience – both on the street side, and within the site as building users are encouraged to leave the building to experience the outdoor space.

One Shenzhen Bay Tower 7, located on the southern-most edge of the development, rises above the other structures in the master plan, and dominates its nearby surroundings. Designed as a mixed-use building, the tower’s architecture reflects the varying programs found within. The building’s form narrows as it moves upward, with larger floor plates accommodating office space making way for smaller floor plates at the top of structure for condominiums. For residential units, all primary living spaces face east, with secondary programming such as kitchens and maids’ rooms facing west.

The building also features multiple efficient components. High-reflectivity glass optimizes energy performance, while fins on the east and west façades provide sun shading. Horizontal projections on the north and south façades mitigate solar gain and integrate a safe alternative to operable windows for natural ventilation in a tall tower. Wherever possible, greenery has been added throughout to the structure. Additionally, all construction materials are produced or manufactured in Southern China in order to reduce the environmental impact of transportation.