499-meter-tall skyscraper to be constructed in China: its total cost is estimated at £3.1 billion

A new skyscraper, the Suzhou Zhongnan Center, of height equal to 499 meters is under construction in China. After its completion, it will stand among the world's tallest buildings. The construction of the building has encountered delays due to financial challenges faced by the building's proprietors, since the estimated cost is 28.5 billion ¥ (£3.1 billion).

The skyscraper, boasting 138 floors, was initially designed to rise to a remarkable height equal to 729 meters. This would have positioned it as the second tallest building in the world. However, new regulations issued by Beijing have changed these ambitious plans in 2015 as the construction of buildings that exceed 500 meters has been banned. Therefore, they designed a structure to reach the impressive height of 499 meters.

The architectural design includes a two-story observation deck providing panoramic views of the expansive cityscape, along with an elevator accessing a rooftop helipad. The unique feature of the updated design includes a sky atrium, incorporating catering, fitness, and cultural amenities. Moreover, the building will host offices, retail areas, a hotel, and residential spaces.

To foster an eco-friendly community, designers enlisted consultants to introduce natural outdoor light into the atrium using an innovative fiber-optic lighting system. Furthermore, several technological advancements have been integrated, such as a novel digital content, aimed at establishing an interactive sky experience.