The Suzhou Center featuring the world's largest monocoque roof is under construction near the bank of Jinji Lake in Suzhou city, east China's Jiangsu
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Imaginechina Limited / Alamy Stock PhotoImage ID:
W83DXRFile size:
34.5 MB (1.7 MB Compressed download)Releases:
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4256 x 2832 px | 36 x 24 cm | 14.2 x 9.4 inches | 300dpiDate taken:
11 December 2016Photographer:
ImaginechinaMore information:
The Suzhou Center featuring the world's largest monocoque roof is under construction near the bank of Jinji Lake in Suzhou city, east China's Jiangsu province, 11 December 2016. Benoy architectural and design firm unveiled its design for the Suzhou Center in Suzhou, China. Scheduled for completion in 2017, this unique structure will feature the world's largest monocoque roof, giving it the appearance of a giant bird with its wings outstretched. Perched near the bank of Jinji Lake, Suzhou Center will be a retail and entertainment hub spanning 36, 000m square, and will also boast residential spaces and a luxury hotel. Once completed, it will be the largest shopping mall in eastern China. The inspiration for Suzhou Center's roof was that of the mythical phoenix: "We envisaged the structure as a bird resting above an oasis with the striking curved architecture mimicking its wings, " explained Benoy Director Winnie Tsang. As the phoenix is said to appear in places that are blessed with happiness and prosperity, it's an apt symbol for what will be one of the most expansive luxury complexes in the country. Three interconnected buildings will contain high-end clothing boutiques, designer studios, and a gourmet supermarket, as well as children's attractions, an IMAX Cineplex theatre, and even an Olympic-sized skating rink. Water also features prominently in Suzhou's design, paying homage to the nearby lake and integrating the complex with its natural surroundings. Landscaped bridges will intertwine from the retail area to the lakefront, with fountains and a cascading water curtain leading to outdoor terraces and public spaces.