Infinitus Plaza,
designed by Zaha Hadid Architects
Infinitus Plaza in Guangzhou, which is the new headquarters of Infinitus China, is a project developed by the Zaha Hadid Architects studio between 2016 and 2021. The 185,000-plus-square-meter facility stands out for its innovative approach to workspace design, combining office, research, educational and retail functions within a sustainable complex. Located on the site of the former Baiyun Airport, in the heart of the new Central Business District, the building not only supports employee creativity and communication, but also sets the stage for modern urban planning.
The lump of Infinitus Plaza reflects the idea of infinity
Photo by Felix Amiss © Zaha Hadid Architects
A symbol of infinity: the lump of Infinitus Plaza
The massing of Infinitus Plaza catches the eye with its fluid, organic form, which reflects the idea of infinity. The two edifices are connected by bridges and shaped to resemble intertwined ribbons. Each building has eight stories, and their facades are covered with perforated aluminum panels, creating a rhythmic, openwork structure. These panels not only give the edifices a distinctive look, but also serve a practical function, reducing interior heat buildup in Guangzhou's subtropical climate. Green roofs, visible as extensive terraces covered with vegetation on the third, seventh and eighth levels, occupy almost half of the roof area, integrating with the surroundings and emphasizing the project's ecological mission.
Infinitus Plaza in Guangzhou - the facades of the blocks are covered with perforated aluminum panels
photo by Liang Xue © Zaha Hadid Architects
The bridges with gentle curves connecting the two segments of the edifice wind in a dynamic manner. They house communal spaces such as a gym, relaxation areas, restaurants and cafes, enhancing the functionality of the complex. The division into two buildings is due to the presence of the Feixiang Park Subway Tunnel (Line 2), which runs underneath the site, which required the project to be finely tuned to infrastructure considerations.
Infinitus Plaza in Guangzhou - site plan.
© Zaha Hadid Architects
gateway to a new neighborhood: urban context
The location on the site of the former Baiyun Airport, now being transformed into a modern district, gives the project special significance. Its proximity to Feixiang Gongyuan Park and newly emerging residential neighborhoods makes the building a link between the historic city center and the rapidly developing area. This kind of urban context underscores how Infinitus Plaza fits into the process of revitalization and identity formation of the new Baiyun Central Business District.
Infinitus Plaza in Guangzhou - bridges with gentle curves connecting the two segments of the edifice meander in a dynamic manner
photo by Liang Xue © Zaha Hadid Architects
community spaces: functionality and philosophy
The design is based on the concept of infinite rings, which organizes the space around central atriums and courtyards. This type of layout creates open, multifunctional interiors that foster interaction between Infinitus' departments. The philosophy of Si Li Ji Ren, which can be translated as "thinking about the welfare of others," plays a key role here. The phrase is derived from traditional Chinese values, particularly Confucianism, where the principle of ren (benevolence) dictates caring for others, and Taoism and Buddhism, which promote harmony and compassion.
Infinitus Plaza in Guangzhou - outdoor terraces provide natural shade to the facade
photo by Liang Xue © Zaha Hadid Architects
In the context of the project, this idea has been adapted by the brand owner as the foundation of the business, based on four pillars: product integrity, environmental protection, concern for employees and social commitment. In practice, Si Li Ji Ren manifests itself in the design of Infinitus Plaza, where the space integrates various functions.
Infinitus Plaza in Guangzhou - longitudinal cross-section.
© Zaha Hadid Architects
architecture in harmony with nature: green technologies
Infinitus Plaza meets LEED Platinum certification and the highest level of China's Green Building Program (3 stars), confirming its green approach. The optimized design reduced the use of concrete, and more than 25,000 tons of recycled materials such as steel, copper, glass, aluminum profiles, gypsum products and wood were used during construction.
The design is based on the concept of infinite rings, which organizes the space around the central atriums and courtyards
Photo by Felix Amiss © Zaha Hadid Architects
Guangzhou's subtropical climate, with high humidity and intense sunshine, influenced the choice of passive and active technologies. An analysis of annual insolation determined the width of the exterior terraces, which provide natural shading for the facade. Perforated aluminum panels, combined with low-e double glazing, reduce heat gain while allowing natural light to enter. This type of approach reduces the need for air conditioning, resulting in lower energy consumption. An innovative solution is an irrigation system that uses harvested rainwater to cool the roofs.
Infinitus Plaza in Guangzhou - the interior of the building
photo by Liang Xue © Zaha Hadid Architects
building wisdom: intelligent management and greenery
The complex is equipped with an intelligent building management system that monitors temperature, carbon dioxide levels and pollution. The ventilation system automatically adjusts the fresh air supply according to the number of people, which optimizes energy efficiency. The rooftop gardens are naturally irrigated and connected to walking paths and a jogging trail. This kind of solution not only improves air quality, but also creates a recreational space in the heart of the city.
Guangzhou's Infinitus Plaza is equipped with a smart building management system that monitors temperature, carbon dioxide and pollution levels
photo by Liang Xue © Zaha Hadid Architects
The future of architecture: the impact of Infinitus Plaza
As the centerpiece of the new Baiyun Central Business District, Infinitus Plaza plays a key role in the revitalization of the former airport site. Its massing and green technologies set the standard for contemporary architecture, combining innovation with environmental responsibility. The project by Zaha Hadid Architects demonstrates how workspaces can be created that integrate different functions and support the community, becoming a model for future developments around the world.
Elaborated: Anastazja Dżupina
Illustrations provided courtesy of Zaha Hadid Architects.
