CITIC International Building in Shenzhen by gmp Architects: Iconic Sustainable Office Tower

The CITIC International Building, designed by gmp Architects, stands as a landmark in Shenzhen’s rapidly densifying Futian District. This 258-meter-tall skyscraper combines high-rise office functionality with publicly accessible spaces and integrated urban green areas, redefining the skyline along Shennan Middle Road. The tower primarily serves the CITIC Group, a leading international corporation active in finance, industry, and infrastructure, while contributing to Shenzhen’s evolving cityscape.

Strategic Urban Placement in Shenzhen

Located on Shenzhen’s prominent east-west axis, the CITIC Tower occupies one of the last available sites in a high-density urban corridor. To the west, it borders the bustling Futian skyscraper cluster, while northern vistas extend toward Luohu’s commercial zones and the surrounding hills. The southern horizon overlooks the Shenzhen River, marking the boundary with Hong Kong’s New Territories. This strategic placement positions the tower as a visual anchor and navigational reference within the dense urban fabric of southern China.

Architectural Design Concept and Form

The building’s form responds to its geographical context and urban surroundings. Four slender volumes of varying heights create a dynamic, tapered silhouette that enhances visual interest from multiple viewpoints. A four-story podium at the base accommodates public amenities, including restaurants and retail outlets, fostering an active street-level environment. Vertical recesses along the façade introduce a human scale, breaking down the tower’s mass and articulating its structural rhythm.

Rooftop Terraces and Sky Gardens

Landscaped rooftop terraces and strategically placed sky gardens integrate open spaces into the high-rise, promoting outdoor accessibility for office workers. These planted terraces serve as areas for short breaks, informal meetings, and social interaction. Adjacent open atriums seamlessly connect these gardens to indoor office spaces, visually and functionally blending interior and exterior environments while reinforcing workplace community.

Sustainable Design and Green Certification

The sky gardens not only enhance social interaction but also contribute to the building’s passive climate control strategies. Vegetation, shading, and natural ventilation improve the microclimate, while open-plan offices and operable horizontal windows allow individualized climate regulation. Reflecting its commitment to sustainability, the CITIC International Building earned China’s Green Building Certification (3 Stars) and LEED Gold precertification.

Awards and Recognition

The CITIC Tower has been recognized internationally for its architectural excellence. In 2025, it received the CTBUH Award of Excellence in the Best Tall Building – 200–299 Meters category, highlighting its innovative integration of urban design, sustainability, and high-rise functionality.

All Photographs are works of CreatAR Images