Unique characteristics such as its durability, its aesthetic versatility, great thermal insulation and its sustainability profile make terracotta one of the cladding materials of choice for hotels, hospitality and entertainment venues, retail and shopping centres, residential buildings, research and educational institutions, hospitals and civic and government buildings.
It is because of this, that we often associate the use of terracotta cladding with medium-rise construction however the reality is that the versatility of the material goes beyond the unlimited colour range and the multiple textures, sizes and bespoke shapes. Terracotta can be used for low, medium and tall construction but also in skyscrapers.
Terracotta goes hand in hand with modular construction and architects worldwide are increasingly attracted by the versatility flair of terracotta and its adaptability when it comes to high rise which allows them to push architectural boundaries. In the UK, we are no strangers to terracotta clad buildings above 100 metres in height however we need to travel to Guangzhou in China for one of the most remarkable architectural achievements using terracotta cladding.
The Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre is an architectural marvel that stands tall in the vibrant city of Guangzhou, China. As one of the most iconic skyscrapers in the world, it embodies the fusion of innovative design, technological advancements, and breathtaking aesthetics.
Completed in 2016, the Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre reaches a staggering height of 530 meters (1,739 feet) with 111 floors, making it one of the tallest buildings globally. Its soaring stature pierces the sky, commanding attention and leaving spectators in awe. The tower’s design, a collaboration between Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates and East China Architectural Design & Research Institute, showcases a harmonious blend of modernity and cultural influences.
One of the standout features of this multi award winning project is its sleek and dynamic exterior where terracotta takes centre stage.
The facade of the skyscraper is made out of glass and a white glazed terracotta vertical mullion system. Serving multiple functions, the terracotta mullions hide window cleaning tracks and provide solar shading and project out from the façade to conceal operable windows. There are vents between the windows and the terracotta, and aluminium fins are located next to the vents to protect them from the wind. White LEDs are integrated into the fins to light the terracotta at night.
Terracotta was the material of choice for the mullions as it provided a light and bright exterior without the additional reflectiveness that would have derived from the use of glass or aluminium and it also served the purpose of paying rendition to the long tradition of Chinese ceramic craft.
The design team led by architect Forth Bagley made the conscious choice of terracotta as one of the main cladding materials for the project. Materiality properties aside, the use of terracotta also served the purpose of injecting an indigenous craft specific to Guangzhou as a city, into the architectural profile and the essence of the building.
The CTF Finance Centre is not only set apart from the surrounding towers by virtue of its height but also by its simplicity. Visually, the white vertical lines juxtapose the white torqued structure of the Canton Tower and the IFC’s internal diagrid.
In addition to its architectural splendour, the Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre plays a significant role in the economic and cultural development of the city. It serves as a vibrant hub for commerce, finance, and international business, housing prestigious corporations and financial institutions. The tower’s strategic location in the city’s central business district further enhances its prominence as a symbol of economic vitality and urban growth.
Beyond its functional and economic importance, this skyscraper stands as a testament to human ingenuity and technological advancements. Its construction required innovative engineering techniques to ensure stability and safety at such towering heights. The tower incorporates advanced structural systems, including a reinforced concrete core and perimeter mega-columns, to withstand the forces of wind and seismic activity.
Furthermore, the Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre exemplifies China’s commitment to sustainable development and green architecture. Among all of its awards, the building has achieved several environmental certifications, such as LEED Gold and China Three Star Green Building ratings. Its eco-friendly features include efficient lighting systems, rainwater harvesting, and low-emissivity glass. By implementing these sustainable practices, the tower reduces energy consumption, minimizes carbon emissions, and sets a positive example for future construction projects.
The Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre stands tall as an architectural masterpiece that captivates both the eye and the mind. Its striking design, technological innovations, and sustainable features make it a beacon of progress and modernity. As a symbol of Guangzhou’s economic prowess and cultural vibrancy, this skyscraper embodies the harmonious coexistence of tradition and innovation. It stands as a testament to human ambition and serves as a reminder of our capacity to shape the world around us through groundbreaking achievements in architecture and engineering.
Rising to a total height of 530 m (1,739 ft) on a site overlooking the Pearl River, at the time of its completion in 2016, the Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre was China’s second-tallest building, after the Shanghai Tower, and the fifth tallest worldwide and, today, it is one of the ten tallest buildings in the world.
For some inspiration and further reading regarding terracotta cladding in high-rise construction in the UK, we recommend our case study on the Atlas Tower in London.
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