Contemporary Architecture in China

Book excerpt: Contemporary Architecture in China features new architecture by focusing on 30 structures built since 1999. These buildings, located in ten different cities over a vast geographical area, cover a wide variety of types, from residential to commercial to public use. China's architecture can be seen as a mirror of the country's development as a whole. During China's reform and opening up in the past 30 years, the country and its architecture have undergone great changes, developing at an overwhelming speed. In the past ten years, in particular, as China has strengthened its global ties, it has also experienced increasingly close cooperation between Chinese and foreign architects. This communication and exchange of ideas has resulted in an impressive number of internationally-recognized design projects. While introducing details of construction—including date, location, use and technical information—the book also focuses on the aesthetic contribution these innovative buildings have made to China's urban landscape. The book's abundant images further enhance the reader's understanding of architectural styles and design features. Developments in construction and engineering as well as trends in architectural design can also be traced, giving readers a better understanding of today's China and its dynamic architecture.