WSP was the building services consultant for this intelligent headquarter building which is home to 12,000 employees. It was important to gain a deep understanding of Tencent culture and their vision in order to provide WSP with the inspiration to design the cutting-edge technology and green building features.
Located in Science Park, Nanshan, this seafront development consists of two office towers, interconnected by three sky bridges. The South Tower measures 248 metres in height (50 storeys), while the North Tower measures 194 metres in height (41 storeys), combining for a GFA exceeding 350,000 sq.m.
The slight rotation of the towers and their offset heights capture the site’s prevailing winds, naturally ventilating the atria while minimizing exposure to direct sun. Designed by NBBJ Architects, the building acquired LEED NC Gold certification with features including glare and solar heat gain control systems with the curtain wall incorporating a modular shading system that adjusts according to the degree of sun exposure. Water in the kitchens and washing rooms is heated by residual heat from the IT computer room and the sky garden incorporates water recycling systems.
Apart from advanced sustainability and architectural features, the project also incorporates cutting edge technology in line with Tencent’s corporate identity. Facial recognition technology is used for security and employee access controls. Using the WeChat app, employees can cut the waiting time for elevators by preselecting the floor in advance. Employee well-being is an important factor influencing the design. Besides food & beverage areas, open-discussion lounges and sleeping pods, the headquarters also feature open areas, and extensive recreation facilities, including a 300m-long running track positioned 100m above ground and spans both towers, basketball courts, pool rooms, 3-storey indoor climbing walls, etc.
