XianTianDi, China - Shui On Development

Of all the projects I have toured throughout China, XianTianDi in the Pudong area of Shanghai is one of the most well thought through, creative, iconic and best implemented projects I have seen. Although it doesn’t quite scream insurmountable super-power of steel and glass like the World Financial Tower, it’s a must see visit on a Shanghai tour. Next door to the iconic Pudong skyscrapers, it is a true urban project that pays homage to the area’s bright historic background, yet integrates and delivers high-rise, mixed use components in its core. It is an incredible reuse of historic structures, including careful placement of new a hotel and office building with selective demolition of historic structures. The result is a viable street pattern and new community.

It took a special company, great attention to detail, proper funding, political connections and designers to think through and implement this complex project. This is the type of mixed use development that we all dream of participating in, and it was amazing just to get the behind the scenes tour from our hosts at Shui On land.

The highlight of the visit: the developers rehabilitated a very traditional home that was located in the neighborhood as an actual museum for people to see the contrast between history and modern day development.

Special thanks for the tours to:

K.B. Albert Chan; M.Arch, MS(UD), MBA, AIA; Director of Planning and Development
Daisy M.Y. Lai; MHKIP, RPP, LEED AP, PRC Registered Urban Planner Qualification
Assistant General Manger – Planning & Development