The Liebian International Building in Guiyang, China, is a futuristic skyscraper that defies expectations. Its most striking feature is a massive 350-foot-tall (108-meter) artificial waterfall cascading down its exterior, making it one of the largest artificial waterfalls in the world incorporated into a building.
A Daring Design
Built by the Ludi Industry Group, the Liebian International Building stands at 121 meters (397 feet) tall. The architect, as of yet, remains uncredited, but as Lee Ying, a Shanghai-based architecture critic, observes: “The waterfall is a bold design statement. It pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in skyscraper architecture, even if its practicality is questionable.”
A Multi-Purpose Marvel
The Liebian International Building is intended to be a multi-use complex, housing office spaces, a shopping mall, and a luxury hotel. The inclusion of these diverse functionalities aims to create a vibrant hub within the city.
The majestic Building emerged during a brief trend for “waterfall architecture” in the early 2010s. However, concerns about practicality and sustainability have likely dampened this trend. Whether the Liebian Building inspires future architects or remains a singular example of audacious design is yet to be seen.
