A recent viral TikTok video has unveiled a colossal building in China, known affectionately as the “Dystopian Apartment,” capable of housing up to 30,000 residents. The video, shared by @fatheristheone using a drone, captures the building’s breathtaking interior and distinctive design, alongside its massive scale that left viewers in awe.
Many of us have ventured through the pages of a dystopian novel, immersing ourselves in tales of societies shrouded in fear or stripped of their essence. Although these stories are fictional, they sometimes serve as cautionary tales. It appears life imitates art as China unveils an apartment capable of housing 30,000 individuals, fully equipped with all the essentials for modern living.
The Regent International apartment in Qianjiang Century City, Hangzhou, a vision brought to life by Alicia Loo, the chief designer of the Singapore Sands Hotel, was constructed in 2013. Towering at 675 feet with an S-shaped silhouette, this structure has either 36 or 39 floors, depending on where you stand. Housing approximately 20,000 residents, it has become one of the most densely populated living spaces worldwide, with countless lives intertwining under one massive roof.
Boasting over 30 floors, the Regent International accommodates its residents with a variety of amenities including restaurants, pools, and nail salons, not to mention grocery stores and internet cafes. Virtually everything one could need is nestled within this “dystopian apartment.”
One might ponder whether the convenience of having every amenity within reach discourages residents from venturing outside, potentially missing out on fresh air and natural sunlight. It’s vital to underline that residents choose to live here not out of necessity but by preference. The bulk of these inhabitants are young professionals, influencers, or college students who find the unique S-shaped building a cost-effective and convenient solution.
Residing at Regent International extends beyond mere convenience; it also presents an economical advantage. With a variety of units available, rent prices range from 1,500 RMB (about $200.00) to 4,000 RMB (just under $600.00), catering to a diverse range of budgets.
While the term “dystopian apartment” might evoke certain reservations, the Regent International is celebrated for its innovative design and has been lauded as “the most sustainable living building on earth.”
In light of the housing crisis in many parts of the world, including the U.S., the concept embodied by the Regent International offers an intriguing solution. By maximizing living spaces without extensive land use, similar models could provide a remedy. In fact, the city of Whittier in Alaska has already embraced this approach with a 14-story building that accommodates all 272 residents, providing amenities akin to those found in China’s marvel.
Of course, such living arrangements come with their own set of pros and cons. The label “dystopian apartment” stems from the curiosity and concern over how such a vast number of individuals can coexist in a single space. The American dream often conjures images of sprawling yards and ample privacy, luxuries that are compromised in such dense living conditions. Nevertheless, for those craving a bit more space, options are available within the Regent International, including larger units with balconies, providing a much-needed escape.
We’re keen to hear your thoughts on this unique living concept. Would you consider making a home in such a place? Let us know by leaving a comment.
