Residential complexes are being built at breakneck speed — it’s impossible to keep track of everything. Life in the city is becoming more active, so builders have to look for new solutions to comfortably accommodate all city dwellers. China is the leader in this field — and the construction of Regent International in Hangzhou will prove this fact to you. If the photo makes you think this is an ordinary house, you are mistaken — it is an entire town, home to more than 30,000 residents.
One building houses so many people that their number can be compared to the population of a small European province. This project has been an incredibly successful solution, given China’s development in all its manifestations.
How was it created?
Initially, the architects planned to build a hotel to comfortably accommodate elite tourists and local businesspeople. It was supposed to be an S-shaped tower that would fit perfectly into the infrastructure of the Qianjiang Century City district. However, the plans changed quite quickly.
The hotel was transformed into a 39-storey residential complex. Currently, 20,000 people live there permanently, but it can accommodate 10,000 more.
From a height, the residential complex resembles a futuristic sculpture of incredible proportions. It is hard to believe that this giant was created by human hands. It is not only a beautiful architectural structure, but also an excellent way to solve social problems.
Living in a ‘town’ where there are no streets
This complex has nothing in common with a typical high-rise building. It not only has apartments, but also everything you need for a comfortable life:
- shops selling food and clothing;
- medical centres and pharmacies;
- gyms and swimming pools;
- restaurants and entertainment centres;
- beauty salons and spas;
- schools, kindergartens, post offices and offices.
This means that residents do not have to leave the complex to get everything they need. They do not need to travel to different parts of the metropolis, as everything is available in their residential complex.
Why China?
The answer is quite logical, as China is recognised as a leader in urban development. Millions of people come here for education or employment. Hangzhou is the country’s technology centre, which is why it was decided to build the complex here. The offices of the most important organisations and many IT companies are concentrated in this area.
It became clear that such projects are in incredible demand, as the housing problem in China is indeed acute. Overpopulation and a lack of free land have contributed to a significant increase in the cost per square metre, but this has not reduced the demand for real estate.
Advantages of living at Regent International
- The main thing is that everything is nearby. This allows the Chinese to save time and get more done.
- In addition, they have round-the-clock access to infrastructure without leaving the residential complex.
- It is also worth noting that the residential complex is home to a progressive community, which allows for the creation of joint projects and various initiatives that will generate income in the near future.
Another advantage is its stylish appearance. Everything here is designed for the comfort and needs of modern people who keep up with the times.
Are there any disadvantages?
Life in an ‘anthill’ — some people may feel psychological pressure due to the large crowd of people, identical walls and long corridors.
limited space — there is no access to the open street, so it feels like a closed space;
social pressure — due to the large number of residents with different characters and goals, conflicts often arise, and the infrastructure does not always withstand the intense demand.
Some believe that this residential complex is the best thing that could be devised for comfort. Others argue that it is a symbol of a doomed life, where people lose their individuality and become part of a certain mechanism.
Is this a useful experience?
According to architects, Regent International could well replace traditional megacities. Its creation has made it clear that home and city are not necessarily separate concepts.
From the outside, it all resembles a science fiction film, but it is reality. Perhaps there will soon be more homes like this.
What are the prospects?
Will ‘house cities’ become a mass phenomenon around the world? Perhaps, because the planet’s population is growing rapidly. We need to look for new solutions and come up with rational ideas to provide everyone with normal living conditions.
However, it is not a given that people will be able to live happily and fully in such homes. It is worth acknowledging that the world seems limited when you live in such a home. After all, we want to feel free and find time for simple walks in the park.
Conclusions
The Regent International residential complex is fantastic. It can be called a social phenomenon and an experiment by architects that has been incredibly successful. It successfully combines scale and comfort, which is important for the modern pace of life.
Most likely, in a few decades, such houses will become commonplace. However, at the moment, this residential complex is the only one of its kind in the world, which is why it has attracted so much attention. Its creation proves that there is no limit to human imagination.
