Shenzen Energy Mansion, China (Photo: @charlesinsz SEM on big.dk)
Cover Shenzen Energy Mansion in China is one of the world’s foremost green skyscrapers (Photo: @charlesinsz SEM on big.dk)

Here are nine skyscrapers which embody the most sustainable form of urban development in Asia

According to the United Nations, by 2050, two-thirds of the global population will reside in cities, posing challenges in space, employment, security, and sustainability. To address these challenges, some recent research indicates skyscrapers are the most eco-friendly form of urban development.

Green skyscrapers are rapidly gaining popularity in Asia, where environmental concerns are on the rise. For example, the Shanghai Tower in China has incorporated innovative green features, such as wind turbines and rainwater harvesting, reducing its energy consumption by 21 per cent.

Here are nine sustainable skyscrapers which are leading the way for green building in Asia.

Read more: The best 10 green homes in Malaysia

1. The Henderson, Hong Kong

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The Henderson, Hong Kong (Photo: Henderson Land)
Above The Henderson, Hong Kong (Photo: Henderson Land)
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The Henderson, Hong Kong (Photo: Henderson Land)
Above The Henderson, Hong Kong (Photo: Henderson Land)

Scheduled to be completed in 2024, The Henderson, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects and overseen by Henderson Land, is designed to be iconic and sustainable.

Mirroring the bud of Hong Kong’s floral emblem, the bauhinia x blakeana flower, the structure prioritises environmental harmony, featuring lush landscaping, expansive terraces, and panoramic views of Chater Garden and Hong Kong Park.

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Photo 1 of 2 The Henderson, Hong Kong (Photo: Henderson Land)
Photo 2 of 2 The Henderson, Hong Kong (Photo: Henderson Land)

Boasting column-free office spaces, it incorporates patented technologies such as the “solar responsive ventilator” for zero-carbon cooling. Moreover, its commitment to eco-conscious practices extends to monitoring real-time emissions and energy usage via a bespoke office app.

In anticipation of Hong Kong’s volatile weather, a resilient façade design ensures durability and ample natural light while reducing energy and water consumption by notable margins. Even before completion, The Henderson has already garnered seven globally recognised accreditations, including LEED and WELL Platinum pre-certifications and the new WiredScore and SmartScore Platinum certifications. 

See also: How distinguished architect Lillian Tay built one of Malaysia’s top architectural practices

2. Shenzen Energy Mansion, China

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Photo 1 of 2 Shenzen Energy Mansion, China (Photo: @charlesinsz SEM on big.dk)
Photo 2 of 2 Shenzen Energy Mansion, China (Photo: @charlesinsz SEM on big.dk)

Completed in 2017, the Shenzhen Energy Mansion, designed by the renowned Danish architects BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group), aimed for architectural distinction and environmental responsibility.

Confronted with a narrow plot and a subtropical climate, the design team conceived a unique rippling facade to optimise natural light and energy efficiency, evoking palm fronds and China’s terraced landscapes.

Home to the Shenzhen Energy Group, the LEED Gold-certified structure features a dynamic exterior. These pleat-like lines balance transparency and opacity to regulate sunlight exposure, an approach which slashes air-conditioning usage by 30 per cent. Integrated grey-water recycling, high-efficiency lighting, and advanced cooling systems further bolster sustainability efforts. 

The building features three rooftop parks and ample green space to enhance the building's eco-friendly footprint, inviting public engagement with urban nature.

Don’t miss: 9 Gorgeous Green Spaces in Asia for a Breath of Fresh Air
 
 
 
 
 

3. Lotte World Tower, South Korea

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Lotte World, Seoul, Korea ( Photo: WikiCommons/Chungdahmnerd)
Above Lotte World, Seoul, Korea ( Photo: WikiCommons/Chungdahmnerd)
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Lotte World Tower, Seoul, Korea (Photo:  Unsplash/(っ◔◡◔)っ Clement)
Above Lotte World Tower, Seoul, Korea (Photo: Unsplash/(っ◔◡◔)っ Clement)

The Lotte World Tower, South Korea’s tallest and the world's sixth tallest building, soars over Sincheon-dong, Seoul, at 555 meters with 123 floors.

Completed in 2017, the tower was designed by American firm, Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF) and encompasses premium Grade A offices, a six-star hotel, an observatory deck, and extensive retail and recreational facilities across its 836,100-sq-m footprint.

Inspired by traditional Korean art forms, its tapered silhouette is adorned with silver insulated glass and filigrees of white lacquered metal. The tower boasts LEED Gold certification and energy-efficient features, including photovoltaic panels, wind turbines, and water harvesting systems.

Read more: 5 design and sustainably-led hotels around the world

4. One City Centre, Thailand

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Photo 1 of 2 One City Centre, Bangkok (Photo: One City Centre)
Photo 2 of 2 One City Centre, Bangkok (Photo: WikiCommons/Bigcitydata)

Fully opened in 2024, One City Centre (OCC) in  Bangkok is Thailand’s tallest office tower with a LEED gold certification, the second-highest worldwide rating level for green buildings. 

Standing at 275.76 metre and boasting 61 floors, OCC was designed and conceptualised by award-winning architectural firm SOM (Skidmore, Owings & Merill) in tandem with other respected local studios, Design 103, Tandem, and DWP.

The tower integrates cutting-edge engineering and green technology with advanced ventilation and water systems, while outside, a rare 5,000-square-metre expanse of lush green space provides a serene oasis amidst the bustling urban landscape.

See also: 14 tranquil modern resort-style homes around Malaysia

5. Taipei 101, Taiwan

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Taipei 101, Taiwan (Photo: Lisanto/ Unsplash)
Above Taipei 101, Taiwan (Photo: Lisanto/ Unsplash)

Completed in 2004, Taiwan’s Taipei 101 tower is one of the most iconic skyscrapers in Asia and is renowned for its innovative sustainable features up to today.

One of its most outstanding sustainable features is the wind damper, which is the largest and heaviest in the world. It helps to stabilise the building against typhoon winds and earthquakes, reducing the need for energy-intensive mechanical damping systems. The tower also uses a double-glazed curtain wall system, which provides insulation and reduces energy consumption for air conditioning.

Additionally, rainwater is collected and recycled for irrigation and flushing toilets, further reducing water consumption. These sustainable features have helped Taipei 101 achieve LEED Platinum certification, making it a model for sustainable skyscrapers globally.

Don't miss: Home Tour: The minimalist Taipei home of art collector Pierre Chen

6. International Commerce Centre (ICC), Hong Kong

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International Commerce Centre (ICC), Hong Kong (Photo: Cheung Yin/ Unsplash)
Above International Commerce Centre (ICC), Hong Kong (Photo: Cheung Yin/ Unsplash)

The International Commerce Centre (ICC) is a skyscraper located in Hong Kong, designed by the famous Argentine-American architect Cesar Pelli who also designed the Petronas Twin Towers. Completed in 2010, it stands 484m tall and is currently the tallest building in Hong Kong.

The ICC features several innovative sustainable features which have helped the ICC achieve LEED Platinum certification. This includes using low-emissivity glass to reduce heat gain and energy consumption for air conditioning.

The tower also uses a regenerative elevator system that generates energy from braking and reduces energy consumption by up to 30 per cent. Additionally, the ICC uses a rainwater harvesting system to collect and recycle water for irrigation and toilet flushing, reducing water consumption. 

Read more: Home Tour: Inside a Luxurious, Feng Shui-Inspired Hong Kong Penthouse

7. Shanghai Tower, China

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Shanghai Tower, China (Photo: Roadtrip with Raj/ Unsplash)
Above Shanghai Tower, China (Photo: Roadtrip with Raj/ Unsplash)

The Shanghai Tower is an architectural marvel located in China, designed by Gensler Architects. Completed in 2015, it stands at 632m and is currently the second-tallest building in the world. A building of superlatives, the tower has the world's highest observation deck and the world's fastest elevators.

One of the most striking features of the tower’s architecture is its double-layered, transparent glass façade that reduces energy consumption by controlling heat and light. The tower also boasts a rainwater harvesting system that collects and recycles water for irrigation and toilet flushing, as well as a greywater system that recycles used water for non-potable purposes.

The benchmark for LEED Platinum certificated buildings, sustainable materials such as low VOC paints, recycled steel, and locally sourced materials were also used in its construction. 

See also: Why Snøhetta Believes That ‘Architecture is Always About People’

 

8. CapitaSpring Tower, Singapore

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CapitaSpring Tower, Singapore (Photo: John Marvin/ Unsplash)
Above CapitaSpring Tower, Singapore (Photo: John Marvin/ Unsplash)

The CapitaSpring Tower, located in Singapore, is a state-of-the-art sustainable skyscraper that stands out for its eco-friendly features. Completed in 2021, the building was designed by Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), a Danish architectural firm known for its innovative and sustainable designs in collaboration with local architecture firm DP Architects, and features a unique blend of greenery and high-tech design elements that enhance sustainability while providing a comfortable and efficient workspace for its occupants. 

The tower uses advanced technologies such as a double-skin façade, which allows for natural ventilation, reducing the need for air conditioning. It also features rainwater harvesting, a green roof, and an innovative vertical transportation system that reduces energy consumption.

The Singapore government's strong commitment to sustainability and the implementation of various initiatives, such as the Green Mark certification scheme, has set the groundwork, and the CapitaSpring Tower is a testament to Singapore's reputation as a leader in green building practices in Asia.

Don't miss: Home tour: A Singapore penthouse in Marina Bay with amazing views

9. Merdeka 181, Malaysia

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Merdeka 181, Malaysia (Photo: iStock)
Above Merdeka 181, Malaysia (Photo: iStock)

Merdeka 118, formerly known as KL118, is a sustainable skyscraper located in Kuala Lumpur. Designed by the famous architectural firm, Fender Katsalidis Architects, it is expected to be completed in mid-2023 and will be the tallest building in Southeast Asia, standing at 644m.

The tower's sustainable design includes the use of energy-efficient materials, such as double-glazed glass, and a series of vertical gardens that help to reduce heat absorption and promote air quality. It also features rainwater harvesting, which will be used for irrigation and toilet flushing, and a solar panel system that will provide a significant portion of the building's energy needs.

With its sustainable design and advanced technologies, Merdeka 118 will be the first tower in Malaysia that will achieve the triple green platinum ratings, namely the Green Building Index (GBI), the Green Real Estate (GreenRE), and the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). 

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