Heartland 66: A Masterpiece of Modern Architecture

Aedas' Award-Winning Design Reflects Traditional Chinese Culture in a Modern Context

The design of Heartland 66 was driven by the desire to create a symbolic connection with the local culture and establish a multi-level circulation network within the site. The building's form, inspired by the traditional Chinese knot, is a single, continuous loop that feeds the site and its surroundings. This infinity loop form is not just aesthetically pleasing but also functional, facilitating the flow of traffic and people within the site.

One of the unique features of Heartland 66 is its commitment to sustainability. The building is LEED Gold certified and its design takes into account the local climate and traditions. The building's form and massing adhere to the city's prevailing wind corridors, enhancing natural ventilation. The introduction of greenery and landscaping, along with the stepping terraces and decks, not only vitalize outdoor activities but also improve roof insulation and effectively reduce building heat gain.

The realization of Heartland 66 was a technical feat. The building covers a gross floor area of 460,000 square meters and stands tall at various heights, with the retail podium at 50m, the office tower at 325m, and three serviced apartments at 150m, 175m, and 200m respectively. The design and construction process was a careful balance of aesthetics and functionality, with the building's form and section developed using fire engineering to simulate evacuation and smoke extraction beyond standard code requirements.

Heartland 66 is not just a building, but a space that interacts with its users. The design caters to the needs of the dynamic modern global citizen, providing spaces for alfresco activities and increased public green space. The intimate roof garden, the sweeping sunken plaza, and the stepped terraces are all responses to the changing local climate and evolving modern Chinese family dynamics.

The design of Heartland 66 faced numerous challenges, including the site's circulation, the arrangement of programme, and the movement between these. The dynamic infinity loop roof and form enclosing the podium evolved as a response to these challenges. The tower form also evolves the infinity loop concept as the multiple masses subtly entwine into the lantern as it adapts to the requirements of an office.

Heartland 66 has been recognized for its design excellence, winning the Golden A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2017. This award is granted to marvelous, outstanding, and trendsetting creations that reflect the designer's prodigy and wisdom. They are venerated products and bright ideas that advance art, science, design, and technology, embodying extraordinary excellence and significantly impacting the world with their desirable characteristics.