Blending optimism, sustainability, and heritage at Wuhan Tiandi Riverview Plaza

Giving form to the optimism and spirit of Wuhan, the soaring three towers of Wuhan Tiandi’s Riverview Plaza were inspired by sampans — small, flat-bottomed boats that once crowded along the nearby Yangtze River. The three towers are arranged in a line parallel to the Yangtze, the curving facades evoking sails about to cruise upriver. The overall design celebrates Wuhan’s freshwater and commercial heritage and its emergence as a political, economic, cultural, and transportation center. Pelli Clarke & Partners designed the three office buildings (Towers 1, 2, 3) and the retail podium (Horizon). 

Infusing traditional Chinese design into a modern composition 

The towers of Riverview Plaza have quickly become one of the city’s main attractions and economic drivers. Soaring at 376 meters tall, 1 Corporate Avenue is the tallest in the Hubei Province of Wuhan. The tower's exterior wall draws inspiration from traditional Chinese architectural elements such as ornate window patterns and Western Mondrian compositions, resulting in a distinctive and contextual architectural facade. 

Defining urban character through a verdant oasis 

The 4-story retail podium, Horizon, consists of an outdoor garden, cafes and restaurants, and a children’s playground for the public to enjoy views of the urban green belt known as BinJiang Park. The entire area of the rooftop is covered by shade canopies, trellises, and trees to extend outdoor enjoyment while being sheltered from heat and rain. The extensive greenery throughout the podium enhances Wuhan Tiandi’s urban character, adding to a vibrant public realm. 

Accelerating carbon reduction and sustainability strategies 

Riverview Plaza achieved China’s first “Very Good” BREEAM sustainability rating, employing strategies such as daylight sensors, extensive passive solar sunshades, greywater recycling, low-flow water fixtures, and a comprehensive waste management plan. Using state-of-the-art energy simulation, the building is predicted to achieve a 17.5 percent carbon reduction and has obtained a carbon neutral certificate from the Chinese government. 1 Corporate Avenue also achieved WELL Gold, as well as participating in the China Green Power Plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.