SOM’s plan for an expanded Central Business District (CBD) in Beijing calls for the establishment of three new zones anchored by signature parks and green boulevards. Express commuter rail service would link the area to the Beijing Capital International Airport and Beijing South Station, while a new streetcar system would serve all zones within the CBD. The scheme also features a network of small, walkable blocks to encourage pedestrian and bicycle travel.
Implementation of the plan could reduce energy consumption within the district by 50 percent, water consumption by 48 percent, and landfill waste by 80 percent. A decrease in emissions from high-performance office buildings would eliminate 215,000 tons of carbon dioxide per year, which is the equivalent of planting 14 million adult trees. SOM’s vision would enable China’s capital city to be ecologically responsible while continuing to grow as a global powerhouse for commerce.
Designed as a flexible framework for development, the plan can be adjusted and phased to respond to the evolving Beijing market. Image © SOM
The CBD expansion is centered on three distinct districts. Image © SOM
A fully integrated, multi-modal public transportation system will mitigate congestion and establish new alternatives to link people to their destinations. Image © SOM | Crystal CG
Winner of an international design competition, the Beijing CBD East Expansion Plan defines opportunities for the growth of commerce, industry, culture and the arts. Image © SOM | Crystal CG
The project enhances Beijing's commitment to public open space by offering three new public parks, green boulevards, and a revitalized riverfront park. Image © SOM | Crystal CG
Green streets will provide shade, parks and boulevards will provide a green urban framework, and reforested areas and enhanced waterways will restore life in areas that have long suffered from Beijings urbanization. Image © SOM | Crystal CG
The re-imagined Bejing CBD is beautiful, prosperous and green. Image © SOM | Crystal CG
The expansion nearly doubles Beijing CBD, creating growth in an environmentally sustainable framework. Image © SOM | Crystal CG
The expanded CBD focuses on connectivity. Express connections to the international airport and South Station improve access and mobility. Image © SOM
The expanded CBD focuses on connectivity. Express connections to the international airport and South Station improve access and mobility. Image © SOM
