A city skyline at night.

Shanghai Tower

Shanghai, China

A Symbol of China’s Ascension

With Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest building and the world’s third tallest, Gensler created a symbol of innovation, sustainability, and a new precedent for vertical urbanism.
Shanghai Tower with tall buildings.
A tall building with many windows.
A tall glass building.
A city with tall buildings.
A city with a river running through it.
A city with a river running through it.
HIGHLIGHTS
  • 632 Meters High, the World’s 3rd Tallest Tower
  • LEED Platinum Certification
  • China Green Building Three Star Rating for Energy Efficiency
  • Double-Skin Façade to Reduce Energy Use
  • Sky Gardens and Vertical Green Space
  • 270 Wind Turbines Generate Renewable Energy
A city with a river running through it.
Challenge

As global cities strive for sustainable development and iconic architecture, Shanghai has emerged as a leading hub for vertical urbanism. In response to limited land availability and rapid urbanization, cities are pushing the boundaries of skyscraper design to create efficient, mixed-use developments that integrate seamlessly into dense urban environments. Shanghai Tower, soaring above the city’s skyline, reflects this global trend by offering a blend of commercial, hotel, and cultural spaces within a single vertical building.

Solution

Shanghai Tower responds to the city’s demand for vertical expansion by combining Class-A office space, luxury hotel, an exhibition center, retail, and cultural venues within a single superstructure. Its unique spiral design minimizes wind load, while the double-skin façade improves energy efficiency. The tower integrates public spaces and green technologies, offering a sustainable, forward-thinking model for future high-density urban environments. By creating a vertical city, Gensler redefined Shanghai’s skyline and urban experience.

Impact

Shanghai Tower has become a global symbol of innovation and sustainability. Its integrated mixed-use design fosters connectivity and community in the heart of the financial district, attracting global businesses and visitors alike. The tower’s energy-efficient systems and public spaces set a new benchmark for sustainable urban development, positioning Shanghai as a leader in high-density, eco-conscious architecture.

“
This tower is a symbol of a nation whose future is filled with limitless opportunities. With Shanghai Tower we celebrate not only China’s economic success and increasing connection to the global community, but also our company’s commitment to developing properties that demonstrate the highest, noblest and most exquisite design achievements possible.
—Qingwei Kong, Former President of Shanghai Tower Construction & Development Co., Ltd.
A person walking in a large glass building.
A few skyscrapers in a city.
A large building with a gold roof.
A person walking up stairs to a building with glass walls.
A city with tall buildings.
A large building with a bridge over it.
A person standing next to a large yellow and white object.
A city street with a tall building in the background.
A city street with tall buildings.
A city with tall buildings.
Areas of Expertise
Recognition
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Lumina Shanghai exterior view.

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