Popular Culture Review Vol. 14, No. 1, February 2003 | Page 31

The Chinese Architect in Shenzhen

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mostly as symbol of modernization and technological advancement, which satis
fies Chinese desires to proclaim their commercial eminence to the world. And
curtain wall construction is another facilitator of Shenzhen speed. If the concrete
structure can be built quickly, the glass-panel system is the only enclosure system
capable of matching that speed. Flexibility is the second advantage; glass can be
cut into any shape and turned in any direction, with the right sealant. Because a
sophisticated curtain wall system can be costly, Shenzhen has localized their manu
facture to fit to make it more affordable. Instead of the double-layered, low-E,
transparent type common in the West, the localized curtain wall is highly reflec
tive and tinted. All these strategies have reduced the cost dramatically, and this has
liberated design creativity.
During the construction process, operable glass panels, intended for emer
gency exits, are propped open for natural ventilation. Once the building is com
pleted and in use, its operable glass panels continue to be propped open. The smooth
and taut finish is compromised for natural ventilation, since many buildings oper
ate without air conditioners or mechanical ventilation systems. Those propped open
glass panels often hold individual air conditioner units, and are used as windows
with canopies from which to hang laundry and other artifacts of daily life. The
expression of ѡ