GUANGZHOU CTF FINANCE CENTRE: TECHNICAL REVIEW AND SPECIFICATIONS

The Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre (Chow Tai Fook Centre) stands as the tallest building in Guangzhou and a critical component of the Pearl River Delta megalopolis skyline. Rising 530 meters (1,739 feet) above the Zhujiang New Town district, this supertall skyscraper exemplifies the integration of high-density mixed-use programming with culturally responsive material engineering.

This technical review provides an in-depth analysis of the towers unique terracotta façade system, its mega-frame structural logic, and the engineering behind its world-record-breaking vertical transportation speeds.

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN AND TERRACOTTA FACADE

Designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF), the Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre is distinguished by its stepped geometry and its innovative use of materials. The tower rises in four major setbacks, each corresponding to a change in function: offices at the base, followed by residential apartments, and finally the Rosewood hotel at the crown.

The most significant architectural innovation is the use of glazed terracotta mullions on the exterior. Unlike the ubiquitous aluminum or steel found on most supertalls, terracotta was chosen for its historical significance to Chinese architecture and its environmental performance. These projecting vertical fins act as natural shading devices. They are glazed with a white, corrosion-resistant coating that is self-cleaning, ensuring the building maintains its pristine appearance despite the humid, pollution-prone urban environment.

STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING AND MEGA-FRAME

The structural system is engineered to handle the complex wind and seismic loads of Southern China. The tower utilizes a "tube-in-tube" system augmented by a perimeter mega-frame. The primary support comes from a square reinforced concrete core and eight concrete-filled steel tube (CFT) mega-columns located at the corners.

These mega-columns are tied to the core by steel outrigger trusses located at four mechanical refuge floors. This connection maximizes the buildings effective width, significantly increasing stiffness and resistance to overturning moments. The stepped setbacks also serve an aerodynamic function, disrupting wind flow and reducing the vortex shedding forces acting on the upper reaches of the tower.

VERTICAL TRANSPORTATION AND SPEED RECORDS

The Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre is famous in the vertical transportation industry for housing the worlds fastest elevators (at the time of installation). Supplied by Hitachi, these ultra-high-speed shuttles travel from the ground floor to the hotel lobby on the 95th floor at a top speed of 21 meters per second (approximately 76 km/h or 47 mph).

To achieve this velocity safely, the elevators employ permanent magnet synchronous motors and a specialized governor system. The cars are equipped with active guide rollers to cancel out vibration and aerodynamic shrouds to reduce wind noise. Additionally, a complex air pressure adjustment system prevents the "ear-popping" effect commonly experienced during rapid altitude changes.

SUSTAINABILITY AND EFFICIENCY

The tower is designed with a focus on energy efficiency. The terracotta fins provide self-shading, reducing the solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) of the envelope. The high-performance glass curtain wall allows for deep natural light penetration while blocking infrared radiation.

The mechanical systems utilize high-efficiency chillers and heat recovery units. The podium roof features extensive landscaping and green roof technologies to mitigate the urban heat island effect and manage stormwater runoff.

TECHNICAL DATA SHEET

Official Name: Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre
Also Known As: East Tower (Guangzhou East Tower)
Location: Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, China
Architect: Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF)
Structural Engineer: Arup
Completion Year: 2016
Architectural Height: 530 meters (1,739 feet)
Floor Count: 111
Elevator Supplier: Hitachi (21 m/s top speed)
Facade Material: Glass and Glazed Terracotta
Primary Function: Office, Residential, Hotel (Rosewood Guangzhou)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is this the tallest building in Guangzhou?
Yes, at 530 meters, the Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre is the tallest building in the city, surpassing the Guangzhou International Finance Center (West Tower) located across the central plaza.

What is the difference between the East Tower and West Tower?
The Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre is often called the "East Tower." Its counterpart, the Guangzhou International Finance Center (438 meters), is known as the "West Tower." Together, they frame the central axis of the Zhujiang New Town.

Why use terracotta on a skyscraper?
Terracotta was selected for its durability, corrosion resistance, and cultural connection to traditional Chinese ceramic trade. The white glazed finish is also highly resistant to dirt accumulation, reducing maintenance costs.

How fast are the elevators?
The express elevators can reach speeds of 21 meters per second (1,260 meters per minute), making them among the fastest lifting systems ever installed in a building. They can reach the 95th floor in approximately 43 seconds.