Bank of China Tower, Suzhou | Li Chung Pei

The primary factors informing the design of the Bank of China Tower are the magnificent site, bordered on two sides by canals, with its opportunities for long- and medium-range views, and the belief that simplified forms and surfaces provide an image of strength and dignity for this leading Chinese institution. This simplicity of massing is important in providing an apparent scale that is greater than the tower’s actual height, which is limited to the same 100 meters as its immediate neighbors.

 The public and private banking halls are located outside the tower in the Low Building, which has larger floor plates, larger structural spans and greater perimeter exposure to daylight and water views. The employees’ cafeteria occupies the entire top floor of the Low Building. It will have open water views to the north and east.

 All available sustainable technologies have been evaluated for use in this building. Abundant daylight can be seen throughout, and the provision of operable windows with high-efficiency insulating glass will result in reduced energy consumption and decreased operating costs. Green roofs will be provided wherever possible, and the construction materials and methods will be evaluated carefully for their environmental impact.