Suzhou, China
Famous as an ancient water town of canals, stone bridges, and pagodas, Suzhou, east of the megalopolis Shanghai, is a fast-growing city of over 11 million. Rising 450 m. by Jinji Lake, Suzhou International Finance Square brings modern development to the skyline of the historic city.
Designed by U.S. architectural firm KPF, the tower has a unique curving top that opens out towards the lake like a dish that welcomes the water. The form also emulates the graceful arc of a fishtail, a Chinese symbol of prosperity known as the Fish Jumping the Dragon’s Gate. The curve extends from the water surface along the podium to the central tower and unfolds towards the top. The building contains facilities for offices, hotels, and apartments. The 92nd floor also includes a sightseeing platform overlooking the city’s rich layers of history and recent development.