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Bank of China Tower
The Bank of China Tower (BOC Tower) is a prominent skyscraper located at 1 Garden Road, Central, Hong Kong Island. Serving as the headquarters of Bank of China (Hong Kong), it is one of the city’s most iconic buildings, renowned for its unique triangular framework and glass curtain wall design.
Designed by Chinese-American architect I. M. Pei and L. C. Pei of I. M. Pei and Partners, the tower stands 315 meters (1,033.5 feet) tall, with a total height of 367.4 meters (1,205.4 feet) including its spire. At the time of its completion in 1990, it was the tallest building in Hong Kong and Asia, as well as the first skyscraper outside the United States to exceed 305 meters (1,000 feet). It held this title until 1992, when it was surpassed by Central Plaza.
Construction began on 18 April 1985 on the site of the former Murray House and was completed in 1990 after five years of development. The building’s steel-column design provides structural support, and it is accessible from Central MTR station. A small observation deck on the 43rd floor, once open to the public, is now closed.
The Bank of China Tower’s distinctive design, supported by four steel columns at its corners, utilizes triangular frameworks to transfer the building’s weight onto these columns. The glass curtain walls further define its aesthetic. Structural engineering was provided by Leslie E. Robertson, known for his work on the original World Trade Center, with mechanical, electrical, and plumbing work done by Jaros, Baum & Bolles.
Though now an unmistakable part of Hong Kong’s skyline, the building faced controversy during its planning stages. Unlike most major Hong Kong buildings, it did not consult feng shui masters, which led to criticism from some practitioners. Its sharp edges and 'X' shapes, perceived as negative symbols, prompted modifications before construction. The building’s silhouette, resembling a meat cleaver, earned it the nickname 'vertical knife' in Cantonese.
Type of Data Point - Basic Data Point - Source Wikipedia
Bank of China Tower (Hong Kong) - Wikipedia
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Inserted: 28-12-2024 21:12:32
Questions related to this Data Point
How did the Bank of China Tower compare to other buildings in Hong Kong in terms of height upon completion?
How did the Bank of China Tower’s design avoid consultation with feng shui masters, and what was the reaction?
How did the Bank of China Tower’s triangular framework and glass curtain walls contribute to its architectural identity?
How did the controversy over the Bank of China Tower’s design impact its reception in Hong Kong?
What modifications were made to the Bank of China Tower following feng shui feedback before construction?
What role did Leslie E. Robertson play in the construction of the Bank of China Tower?
What was the significance of the Bank of China Tower being the first skyscraper outside the US to exceed 305 meters?
Why is the Bank of China Tower sometimes referred to as the "vertical knife"?
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