Interview with Vincent Lam Vincent Lam, director of Arup Guangzhou and project manager for the Guangzhou TV Tower

How will the TV Tower be the new symbol of Canton?

Vincent Lam - This 610-metre tower, which will be inaugurated in June in time for the Asian Games, is currently the tallest tower of its kind in the world. Most of its structure is both open and translucent, and its body is unique, with a "slim waist", a twisting movement, and a shape that seems to change depending on the angle of view. These are the features that will make the TV Tower Canton's new icon.

What type of development will surround the tower?

V. L. - First of all, there will be a vast square of 160,000 m2 with green spaces. To the north, you'll be able to walk to the south bank of the Rivière des Perles, which will be laid out as a promenade. To the south, there will be a 100,000 m2 underground shopping and cultural area, as well as an underground station and a main road.

What is your role as Director of Arup Guangzhou?

V. L. - Arup is the lead consultant on the TV Tower project. We are leading the design, architectural and structural teams, working closely with our client to deliver the project on time and within budget. As well as challenging solutions (height, complex geometry, etc.), the most interesting aspect of this project was bringing together the philosophy and methods of a Western architect and the cultural requirements of an entirely Chinese project. Successfully building the main structure in three years was a real challenge.