The issue of overpopulation and water shortage is the major challenge faced by my proposal. Shanghai must optimize the use of its soil, and should collect its water before it is lost to the sea.

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The tide of Suzhou Creek (4m) is a natural pump that allows the gathering and the cleaning of water in urban lakes, to be used as water reservoirs and for recreation. The area surrounding the train station is flooded thus balancing urban construction and water.



At the center of the region I propose the construction of a steel Super Tower across from the ocean - perhaps the highest in the world - using the form and structural design of a modern sail (Open 70). Standing on columns, having a double shell, displaying vertical symmetry, its structural strength reinforced by tensioned cables similar to the riggings of sailing vessels, this building exemplifies the transfer of shipbuilding technology into an urban setting.

A network of spiral-like roads are used by pedestrians, bicycles, and tramcars  to connect spherical, almost airborne, urban settlements.



Each settlement is a self-contained 75 m diameter sphere with 20 active levels. From bottom to top we find 8 floors of offices located around the central atrium which allows the view towards the earth, 2 floors of public spaces in a traditional urban layout grid, 8 floors of residences around an asymmetrical central atrium with green roofs, etc, and finally two floors for skylight applications, including energy production.



Wind and solar systems at a plethora of points throughout the project, geothermal units, and small dams in the area of the flooded areas, generate additional power.



The metropolitan marina highlights the historical and economic tradition of the port of Shanghai. Its ground services (PIANG) are supported by a structure of commercial buildings and hotels placed on the central islet. The parking spaces are located at the lower levels, while higher up a network of roads connects with the station. The station itself extends adjacent to and bellow the railway lines. Finally the main perimeter roads and the station’s parking areas are placed underground leaving free the view to the horizon.



The Dance of the Dragon, the traditional boat races, the pearls and shells of Shanghai, all become a source of inspiration for the architectural forms that vibrate along with the tide on the banks of Suzhou Creek.



S.G.

the Blue Pearls project