SANY Global Science & Technology Innovation Center (Global Headquarters)

Located in the heart of Beijing, SANY Global Headquarters has captured the attention of the global architectural and technology communities, as well as key government stakeholders, since its inception. More than just a landmark, it sets a new international benchmark for smart and sustainable avant-garde architecture, redefining the future of high-tech campuses in China and beyond.

LOCATION: Beijing, China

CLIENT: SANY Group

ABOVE-GRADE BUILDING AREA: 260,779 SQ.M / 2,807,001 SQ.FT

BELOW GRADE BUILDING AREA: approx. 200,000 SQ.M / 2,152,782 SQ.FT

STATUS: Phase I Expected Completion 2026

CATEGORY: Commercial – Tech Headquarters Campus

Final competition submission video, awarded first prize in a highly competitive international competition.

The overall planning follows Beijing’s natural topography, with a layout that slopes from west to east. The cascading building complex creates a space that metaphorically gathers energy with a “mountain at the back and water in front.”

The core of the design consists of two technological prisms positioned north and south, paired with two stable triangular volumes to the east and west. On the western side, the research podium resembles a spinal column. The central landscape axis, akin to a string of pearls, connects the central plaza and sunken courtyards. As people move through the site, they experience diverse views with architecture and landscape seamlessly integrated.

The campus planning follows Beijing’s natural topography, with higher elevations in the west and lower in the east. To the west lies Xiangshan (Fragrant Hills), while to the east flows the Nansha River system, creating a setting that embraces the mountains and overlooks the water.

Street view of the Smart Prism’s southern façade

The main building, the Smart Prism, is the most prominent feature of the campus. While it perfectly integrates with the surrounding buildings, its understated form contrasts strongly with its highly intelligent internal structure. The 3+1 triangular volumes form a cuboid where solid and void intersect, symbolizing stability with dynamic variation.

Design concept diagram of the Smart Prism

Section diagram of the Smart Prism

The triangle is not only a structural approach but also a narrative symbol. When light penetrates the crystalline and translucent Smart Prism, the 60-meter atrium will illuminate, lighting up the entire campus.

Through two unique pairs of triangular “technological light bands” that span across the building’s five façades, the design achieves a harmonious interplay of geometry and light. This integration not only provides abundant natural lighting for the interior but also seamlessly blends with the diagonal bracing of the core structure.

Smart Prism and Central Landscape Axis

The architecture is seamlessly integrated with the green space, sunken courtyards, and rooftop platforms, forming a dynamic and lively plaza. The sunken plaza blurs the boundaries between nature and architecture, extending the landscape, and bringing abundant natural light into underground and interior, thereby activating the underground functions and spaces.

The main structure of the SANY Global Science & Technology Innovation Center project phase one has been completed, with secondary structure works progressing as planned. Roof and finishing works have been fully initiated. It is not only a new landmark in Beijing but also a model of the integration of modern architecture and culture in China. Showcasing the infinite possibilities of future technology parks to the world.