Rising 106.5 meters in Hangzhou, the recently completed Prism Tower challenges conventional skyscraper design with its distinctive triangular form and stepped facade that integrates outdoor spaces and aligns with the city's infrastructure.
- Unique triangular form with a stepped façade
- Mixed-use space including hotel, residences, offices, and retail
- Public atrium with landscaping and water features
What happened
The Hangzhou Prism tower, located in the rapidly modernizing city of Hangzhou, China, has recently been completed. This mixed-use building rises to 106.5 meters (349 feet) and occupies nearly 43,000 square meters of space. Its striking triangular shape is created by two large cuts through an otherwise rectangular volume, giving it a dynamic and asymmetric appearance that shifts depending on the vantage point.
Beyond its form, the tower includes diverse functions such as hotel accommodation, residential units, office spaces, and retail areas. At its base is a spacious public atrium that invites visitors to enjoy landscaped gardens, water features, and recreational spots, creating a vibrant community hub within the central business district.
Why it feels good
OMA’s design approach goes beyond aesthetics by crafting functional outdoor terraces that capture panoramic views of Hangzhou. The stepped façade not only enhances the building’s shape but also thoughtfully aligns with nearby city features like a high-speed rail station and a surrounding park, integrating the tower harmoniously into the urban fabric.
Moreover, the Prism Tower embodies a cultural nod to Hangzhou’s heritage, inspired by the ancient expression about the city’s heavenly beauty. It strives to foster a creative community atmosphere while providing flexible spaces that meet diverse needs, blending tradition with contemporary architecture in a way that uplifts the cityscape.
What to enjoy or watch next
Visitors and residents alike can look forward to experiencing the lively public atrium filled with natural elements, which creates an inviting environment within the bustling city center. The nearby 35,000 square meter residential tower complements the Prism with a similarly inspired façade, reinforcing the dynamic visual identity of this new district.
As Hangzhou continues its development boom, exciting projects like the Hangzhou Oil Refinery Factory Park and the upcoming Hangzhou International Sports Centre further contribute to the city’s transformation. The Prism Tower stands as a leading example of how innovative architecture can shape vibrant urban living and inspire future creative development.