The Place, Shanghai

The Place (formerly known as “City Center”) located in Hongqiao – one of the city’s four central businessdistricts – was acquired by Treasury China Trust, leading owner, manager and developer of commercial real estate. It is redeveloping the whole site and aiming for LEED Gold certification on the new tower, The Place Extension.

WSP’s ability to translate local regulations into world-class developments has been particularly valuable. Shanghai’s building standards cover not only issues such as fire safety, but light pollution and reflectivity.

The refurbishment of The Place One towers, which were built 12 years ago and originally designed by WSP, has involved particular consideration of the latest targets. Although codes everywhere have changed, this has particularly been the case in China – since the 2008 earthquake, seismic design has been very strict.

WSP has also advised the client on international standards, particularly LEED Gold accreditation. This can involve including a number of elements that add cost to a scheme, such as showers for people who cycle to work, extra shading on the outside and double-glazing or low-U windows. We have helped the client to make the necessary energy savings in the most cost-effective way.