Exploring Hangzhou’s Regent International Center: A Vertical City Housing 20,000 Residents

In Hangzhou, China, the Regent International Center stands as a colossal “vertical city,” accommodating up to 20,000 residents within its single towering structure. Constructed in 2013, it boasts a remarkable array of amenities, including grocery stores, restaurants, internet cafés, and more – offering a self-sustaining environment. The 39-story tower, towering 675ft high, grabbed attention for its sheer scale, often likened to a symbol of dystopian megastructures. Originally designed as a luxury hotel, the Regent International still exudes elegance with upmarket features, such as an ornate lobby, showcasing architect Alicia Loo’s touch. Once a hotspot for influencer activity, the building served…