Ever imagined a life where you never have to step outside your apartment block because everything you need is right there? Well, for over 20,000 residents in one of China’s behemoth buildings, this is their everyday reality.
Choosing the perfect place to live can be a real headache. You’re looking for a sweet spot that’s close to work, accessible to loved ones, affordable, and maybe even a stone’s throw from some fun activities, right?
Now picture this: a living situation where you seldom, if ever, need to leave your building to get everything from groceries to entertainment. Sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, doesn’t it?
Is it a vision of utopia or more of a claustrophobic dystopia? Well, at least 20,000 inhabitants of the colossal Regent International in Qianjiang Century City, located in Hangzhou’s bustling central business district, seem to be testing out this lifestyle.
So, what keeps these thousands of tenants indoors? Simply put, the building packs in pretty much everything one could ask for. While it doesn’t offer fresh air—unless you open a window, which might still tempt you to step out occasionally—it compensates with its staggering height of 675ft and a floor space of 260,000 square meters, making it one of the biggest structures in China.
The building can fit up to 30,000 people but currently hosts around 20,000. What’s inside that keeps everyone so content? Depending on which part of the building you’re in, it might vary slightly, but expect to find amenities typical of any bustling town center.
From a massive food court, barber shops, and nail salons, to medium-sized supermarkets, swimming pools, and even internet cafes, the Regent International doesn’t skimp on conveniences. It’s been a hot topic on TikTok, where users have marveled at its extensive facilities.
The building’s sheer size is a spectacle in itself, something that has captured the fascination of many online. A viral TikTok video by @fatheristheone even features stunning drone footage that highlights just how massive it really is.
Originally designed by Alicia Loo, known for her work on the world’s second seven-star hotel, the Singapore Sands Hotel, the building was intended to be a luxurious six-star hotel. It has since transformed into a residential haven populated mostly by students, graduates, and young professionals.
And if you’re wondering about the cost of living in this self-sufficient skyscraper, it’s surprisingly affordable. Tiny apartments without windows (yes, really) can be snagged for around 1,500 RMB per month ($210), while larger units with balconies go for about 4,000 RMB per month ($570), as reported by local outlets.
Whether this setup is a dream come true or a bit too insular depends on your perspective, but one thing is certain: living in Regent International is nothing short of an extraordinary experience.