By Introduction
The Oppo Technology & Research Centre Tower, located in Chengdu, China, stands as a symbol of innovation and collaboration in the heart of the Singapore Sichuan Hi-Tech Innovation Park. Designed by Gianni Botsford Architects in the UK, in collaboration with RJWu & Partners in Taiwan, this 42-storey tower represents a significant milestone for Chinese mobile phone manufacturer Oppo.
Context and Purpose
Situated at the nexus of the bustling city of Chengdu, the tower serves as the regional headquarters for Oppo’s research endeavors. With a capacity to accommodate up to 5,000 engineers and support staff, the center fosters an environment that encourages collaboration, idea exchange, and continuous learning among its occupants. It aims to be a focal point within the masterplan, offering panoramic views of the surrounding park and cityscape.
Design Concept
The architectural vision for the tower revolves around the concept of a “vertical village.” Through the strategic incorporation of voids, varying floor heights, and alternative circulation routes, the design promotes interaction and connectivity among occupants. By breaking down the mass of the tower into smaller volumes and staggering them horizontally and vertically, the architects achieve a diverse skyline while maximizing daylight penetration into interior spaces.
Façade Design
A key aspect of the tower’s design is its dynamic façade, which reflects the shifting volumes within. Employing a self-similar shifting logic, the façade creates a filigree effect that not only enhances visual interest but also complies with planning regulations regarding façade solidity. Each vertical volume culminates in a triple-height “lantern” space, providing openness and natural light to the floors below while creating a sense of visual continuity with the sky.
Conclusion
The Oppo Technology & Research Centre Tower embodies the spirit of innovation and forward-thinking design. By prioritizing collaboration, connectivity, and sustainability, it sets a new standard for workplace architecture in Chengdu and beyond. As a beacon of technological advancement, this tower stands poised to inspire and empower generations of engineers and researchers in their quest for excellence.
