China Central Television Headquarters Beijing: A Reinvention of the Skyscraper

The China Central Television (CCTV) Headquarters in Beijing, designed by OMA, is a groundbreaking architectural marvel that redefines the traditional skyscraper. Completed in 2012, this colossal structure stands as a testament to innovative design and engineering, symbolizing China’s broadcasting power on a global scale.

A Loop of Interconnected Activities: The Design Concept

Instead of striving for ultimate height, the CCTV Headquarters embraces a unique loop form. Two leaning towers rise from a shared platform, converging in a dramatic 75-meter cantilever. This unconventional design fosters interconnectedness, bringing together the entire TV production process – previously dispersed across the city – into a single, unified complex. The building houses TV studios, offices, broadcasting, and production facilities, totaling approximately 473,000 square meters. This makes the CCTV Headquarters OMA’s largest project to date and their first major building in China.

Defying Convention: The Structure and Facade

The building’s loop structure challenges conventional skyscraper design, creating a visually striking and structurally intricate form. The facade reflects this complexity, showcasing a web of diagonal supports. Denser patterns appear in high-stress areas, while looser, more open patterns mark areas requiring less support. This innovative approach transforms the facade into a visible representation of the building’s internal forces.

A Collaborative Endeavor: The Team Behind the Vision

The CCTV Headquarters project was spearheaded by a team of renowned architects and engineers. Led by Rem Koolhaas, Ole Scheeren, David Gianotten, and Dongmei Yao of OMA, the project involved extensive collaboration with partners and a team of over 100 architects. East China Architectural Design & Research Institute (ECADI) served as the Local Design Institute. Arup, led by Cecil Balmond, provided the structural and MEP engineering expertise. Other key contributors included Front INC, Inside/Outside, and various specialist consultants.

China Central Television Headquarters: A Modern Icon

The China Central Television Headquarters is more than just a building; it’s a symbol of China’s ambition and architectural prowess. Its unique design, innovative structure, and sheer scale have cemented its place as a modern architectural icon, showcasing the potential of architecture to redefine skylines and inspire future generations.