Parkview Green is a unique development that incorporates pioneering energy-efficient technology. The LEED-CS registered mixed-use plaza comprises a world-class shopping centre, Grade-A office complex, a six-star boutique hotel and a bridged public route through the heart of the building.
The complex is encased in a glass and ETFE plastic glazed ‘envelope’. The envelope creates a microclimate with various zones that are relatively uniform and easily controlled. This acts as a passive modulator for creating optimal environments in terms of interior air temperature and quality. This is considered important given Beijing’s harsh climatic conditions.
The Parkview Green project, situated between Beijing’s embassy district and the Central Business District, was designed to be a standout building when planning began almost ten years ago, long before environmentally conscious design became mainstream in China. The project, designed by Winston Shu of Integrated Design Associates, aimed to create a striking architectural landmark, and to respond to the constraints of the site, working harmoniously with its neighbours.
The majority of the energy efficiency savings in the building are made from well-orchestrated passive systems. The structure is not air conditioned inside. The whole interior space acts as a solar chimney, with the 89m highest point of the pyramidal form drawing warm air up and out of the building. Instead of energy-hungry air conditioning and hermetically sealed offices, the office and retail areas are ventilated through underground ducts, using the naturally consistent temperature of the earth, and chilled ceilings.
The architect, Integrated Design Associates and the engineer Arup, worked together on the energy strategy. Arup provided a full multi-disciplinary service for the project including structural, mechanical, electrical, public health, façade, fire, building physics, geotechnical and traffic engineering.
In 2010, nearly 80 exemplary Asian projects from 10 countries competed in the prestigious MIPIM Asia Awards. The winners were unveiled at the Awards Ceremony on 11 November 2010. This programme recognises outstanding real estate projects in the Asia Pacific region for their innovative, technical, environmental and architectural qualities.
