Many people are familiar with dystopian novels or the concept of a dystopian society, which often portrays communities living in fear or stripped of their humanity. While most of these stories are fictional, some consider them cautionary tales. In China, however, there is now an apartment building that can accommodate 30,000 people and offers all the necessary amenities.
Qualities of the Dystopian Apartment
The Regent International apartment in Qianjiang Century City, Hangzhou, was designed by Alicia Loo, the chief designer of Singapore’s Sands Hotel. Completed in 2013, it stands 675 feet tall and houses around 20,000 residents. The building has a distinctive S-shape and consists of either 36 or 39 floors, depending on the side. It is one of the most densely populated areas in the world, with a large number of residents living together under one roof.
Regent International offers a range of amenities such as restaurants, pools, nail salons, grocery stores, and internet cafes. Essentially, everything you need can be found inside this “dystopian apartment.”
While it might seem like many residents will never leave their homes, raising concerns about a lack of fresh air and sunlight, it’s important to note that these residents are not forced to stay inside. In fact, most of the residents are young professionals, influencers, or college students who find the S-shaped building cost-effective and convenient.
Advantages of Living There
Living at Regent International provides incredible convenience, with all essential services under one roof. Affordability is another key advantage, with units available at different price points, ranging from 1,500 RMB (around $200) to 4,000 RMB (just under $600) per month.
Although some refer to it as a “dystopian apartment,” others have praised its innovative design. It’s even been hailed as “the most sustainable living building on earth.” Given the housing crisis in many parts of the world, the concept of a “dystopian apartment” could present a unique solution to expand living spaces without consuming large amounts of land. Interestingly, the city of Whittier in Alaska has adopted a similar concept. They have a 14-story building with 272 residents, functioning like a hotel turned into an apartment complex. This building, much like the one in China, offers amenities such as a church, school, post office, and police station.
Possible Downsides
Like any housing solution, this comes with both pros and cons. The building’s size and density have led some to call it a “dystopian apartment.” Many people wonder how so many individuals can coexist in one place. In cultures like the United States, where people tend to value privacy and personal space, this model might seem uncomfortable. Most Americans prefer having a yard for relaxation or for pets to play, which is a luxury not available in this type of housing.
A significant downside is the lack of personal space and limited access to the outdoors. While this might seem problematic, one solution could be to take a walk outside or rent one of the larger units, which come with balconies that offer a bit more space and a chance to get fresh air.
