Radical simplicity Designed to serve as the world headquarters of the growing Pepsi-Cola corporation, the structure consists of a pristine glass-and-aluminum volume with massive, 9-by-15-foot window panes set against a dark granite service core that visually separates the building offices from its adjacent neighbors. The result is a technical tour de force and a powerful … Continued
Creating a new landmark district Strategically positioned between central Beijing and the Capital International Airport, this proposed high-density, mixed-use district would become a new global gateway for China’s capital city. The plan, to be built in phases, calls for landmark offices and residential towers, cultural venues, and open space, and a new bridge linking to … Continued
Defining visuals Graphic elements complete the concept of this new international destination. A system of logos identifies different components, yet works together as a unifying thread woven through the development’s wayfinding signage, street furniture, advertising, and marketing collateral. Together, the graphics delineate the project as a new neighborhood and provide a sense of arrival at … Continued
Design inspired by regional landscapes Jinan, the capital city of Shandong Province on China’s eastern coast, is known for its rich variety of natural landscapes — its springs, Daming Lake, and the nearby Mount Tai and Yellow River. As the master planner, architect, and landscape designer for Jinan’s new central business district, SOM took inspiration … Continued
The Zhengzhou Public Realm Improvement Plan establishes a series of upgrades for the Dragon Lake New District in Zhengzhou, China. It includes safer main crossing streets in busy residential neighborhoods, public realm improvements for the Ruyi Canal South area, and design guidelines for the public realm along Ruyi Canal North corridor. The Dragon Lake area … Continued
The creation of the Cedar Creek Waterway Master Plan for downtown Abilene, Texas, is an early step in realizing the voter-supported bond initiative to improve the area between South 11th and North 10th streets. Starting with the Abilene Downtown Central Park — which will host a variety of areas for recreation and respite — the … Continued
CITIC Financial Center creates two iconic, structurally expressive towers that incorporate the world’s most advanced engineering approaches to design. The multiphase project is located in the Shenzhen Bay Super Headquarter district with unparalleled access to waterfront parks and rapid transit. The design of the Center aspires to form a nexus of public activity by developing … Continued
Exceptionally broad in scope and vision, this plan transforms a former industrial zone along the banks of the Pearl River into a new, sustainable city that will accommodate more than 740,000 residents and 660,000 employees. By expertly combining urban density, transit accessibility, and ecological vitality, this master plan will enable Baietan to become a regional … Continued
Evoking the client’s vision to promote art, music, theater, and dance in Kuwait, the design for the Al Ahmadi Cultural Center celebrates the country’s rich cultural heritage with a bold response to the project’s program, climate, and site. Located south of Kuwait City in Mahboula, the Center consists of two 800-seat theaters, a 400-seat concert … Continued
Conceived in response to widespread economic development in the Middle East, this sweeping master plan is designed to propel growth in Bahrain and its capital, Manama. It is also intended to serve as a model for future development throughout the region. The 432,000-square-meter site consists of an island connected to the mainland via causeways. With … Continued