The Rotterdam firm MVRDV has won the competition for the Shimao ShenKong International Center, a mixed-use development in the heart of the Longgang district of Shenzhen, China. To be known as Shenzhen Terraces, the 101,300-square-meter complex will include a convention center, a bus terminal, a theater, and a library.

The irregular curving forms of the low buildings and open-air public spaces strike a contrast with the vertical lines of the high-rises close by. Bridges join the volumes at second-floor level, creating a continuity of routes with the surrounding constructions. The design is strongly geared towards sustainability criteria, using concrete recycled as aggregate, large overhangs, photovoltaic panels, greenery, ponds, and rainwater collection systems.