Surrounded by skyscrapers, the project inherits a vibrant climate for commercial and retail activities. The building mass is derived from the silhouette of a Chinese Seal—comes often in the form of a quadrangular prism—which represents trustworthiness and sincerity in Chinese culture. Verticality and symmetry is celebrated in its long cubic form, where a vertical groove runs top-down on each side to divide the building into four equal volumes, and tapers off into curved canopies at the building entrances.

The building form also results in a sqare layout for the office and hotel space which promotes efficiency and reflects Chinese architectural tectonics. This quadural feature is implemented throughout the project, from facade details to interior designs, to usher in a classical and elegant landmark. The podium’s two atriums in the north and south imitate the inverted seal, using a structure composed of timber beneer and semi-transparent acrylic. The main entrance of the podium is situated to face the commercial street and open up to the public to serve as a connection node between central subway station and gathering plaza.

The design’s emphasis on public space is also illustrated in the inviting office and hotel lobbies, and most pronouncedly, the sky bar, in which a stepping layout is employed to maximise view to the breathtaking vista. A specialty restaurant is also set on the rooftop featuring a water curtain falling from the rooftop. Together, they present to guests the stunning beauty of Nanjing. “We aim to refine the inner charm of this thousand-year-old city and integrate with modern elements. The building curves inflect contemporary brilliance and traditional virtues, bringing vitality into the city,” said the lead designer Leo Liu, Global Design Principal of Aedas.