Gao Yang

Completion: 2009/2010

Size: 68,000 m2

Alsop Architects

Will Alsop was appointed by the Shanghai Port International Cruise Terminal to develop proposals for the Gao Yang site.

Alsop reviewed the previous masterplan and proposed interventions for consolidating and enriching it.

Alsop co-ordinated with the other design team disciplines: structural, mechanical and electrical principles as well as supporting information relating to traffic analysis, fire, structure, facade engineering and lighting design.

Gao Yang is a site of 68,000sqm, located along the Huangpu River in Shanghai, providing a gateway into the metropolis and accommodating three 80,000-tonne cruise ships at any one time, with a passenger flow of over 1.5 million people per year.

The city planning authorities set a target to liberate 30% of the municipality for citizens to enjoy as part of the Shanghai world expo 2010, whose theme was ‘better city, better life’. The cruise terminal site formed part of the vision to create a green corridor along the Huangpu River. Completed in 2010, the mixed-use development occupies a total floor area of more than 260,000 sqm, comprising 80% commercial use, and 20% public facilities including an art gallery and retail outlets.

Existing structures were preserved where possible and the design complements the context and enhances waterfront views.