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Suspended 250 meters high in Chongqing, The Crystal spans 300 meters, about 40,000 tons, panoramic viewpoint, hanging gardens, and restaurants in a structure supported on towers
The horizontal building in China, officially known as The Crystal, transformed the landscape of Chongqing by suspending a 300-meter structure 250 meters high, with an approximate weight of 40,000 tons, panoramic viewpoint, hanging gardens, restaurants, and engineering solutions for stability against winds and seismic shocks.
Horizontal building in China was assembled on the ground before being elevated
The construction of The Crystal required a different strategy from traditional assembly at great heights. According to information attributed to Safdie Architects, the metal segments were assembled on the ground before being hoisted to the top of the main skyscrapers.
The option to assemble parts of the structure on a firm surface reduced the complexity of working at height.
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After this stage, hydraulic jacks were used to lift thousands of tons of steel in a controlled manner to the final position.
The process involved a sequence of assembly, elevation, and aerial fixation. The structure was consolidated on the towers with locking systems prepared to withstand the demands of a suspended work at great height.
300-meter structure focuses on leisure, observation, and tourist use
The Crystal has a total length of 300 linear meters and houses functions aimed at the public. Among the spaces mentioned in the base material are hanging gardens, restaurants, and a transparent observation platform.
The panoramic viewpoint offers a 360-degree view, transforming the upper part of the complex into a tourist attraction within the structure itself. The project also includes a heated infinity pool in an enclosed environment.
The combination of leisure, observation, and elevated circulation differentiates the horizontal building in China from a common bridge between buildings.
The structure functions as a suspended corridor with areas for staying and visiting.
Safety depends on systems against winds and seismic shocks
The integration between the suspended corridor and the towers required solutions focused on stability. The base material informs that flexible systems allow the block to oscillate safely, without compromising the vertical structures.
The stability of the corridor is also monitored electronically. Sensors measure air pressure and activate internal mechanical counterweights, reducing the oscillation perceived within the complex.
The structural glass of the facade underwent wind tunnel tests, according to the consulted material. The protective layers were designed to withstand climatic pressures at high altitudes.
Project reinforces Chongqing as a destination for suspended architecture
Since its inauguration, the complex has become part of Chongqing’s urban image. The proposal to unite towers with a large horizontal structure created an attraction associated with civil engineering and architectural tourism.
The base material states that visitors seek the location to experience walking on a suspended structure.
Local hotels and restaurants have also adjusted services to meet the demand generated by the tourist flow.
The scale of the project is the main point of public interest: a 40,000-ton structure, positioned 250 meters high, with commercial, tourist, and leisure functions combined at the top of buildings.
The project also appears as an example of aerial use of urban space, by connecting buildings through a horizontal construction. In the case of Chongqing, the difference lies in the physical dimension and the variety of internal uses.
This article was prepared based on information from Safdie Architects and the base material provided, with data, numbers, and statements preserved as per the consulted material.
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