The 492 metre tower became a defining symbol of Pudong’s transformation into an international business and commercial property district

Construction of the Shanghai World Financial Center was completed in Pudong, Shanghai, marking a major moment in Asian real estate and skyscraper history. The 101 storey mixed use tower rises 492 metres and combines premium offices, retail space, conference facilities, a luxury hotel and observation areas within one vertical development.

Developed by Japan’s Mori Building Company and designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox, the project was conceived as a global business centre capable of attracting multinational companies to Shanghai’s rapidly developing financial district. Its distinctive trapezoidal opening near the summit later earned it the popular nickname “the bottle opener.”

The project’s journey reflected both the risks and resilience associated with large scale property development. Construction began in 1997 but was suspended after the Asian financial crisis weakened regional investment conditions. Work resumed in 2003 after the design and proposed height were revised. The structure reached its full height in September 2007, while façade, lift and interior installation continued into the following year. Completion on 17 July 2008 therefore represented the revival of a project that had remained uncertain for several years.

At the time of completion, the tower stood among the tallest buildings in the world and became the tallest completed skyscraper in mainland China. It officially opened on 28 August 2008, with its observation facilities opening shortly afterwards.

The development demonstrated how one landmark property could transform the identity, investment appeal and commercial value of an emerging business district. Together with Jin Mao Tower and the later Shanghai Tower, it helped establish Lujiazui as one of the world’s most recognisable clusters of supertall real estate and strengthened international investor confidence in Shanghai.

The Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat named it the Best Tall Building Worldwide for 2008, recognising its architectural form, engineering achievements and contribution to high rise urban development.