Ground Broken for Jinan Cheda International Finance Center

This morning, John Portman & Associates (PORTMAN) principals Jack Portman, Grace Tan and Walt Jackson joined local officials, owner and invited guests for a groundbreaking ceremony hosted by the Shandong Qide Real Estate Co. at site for the future Jinan Cheda International Finance Center. The project site consists of three adjacent lots (16, 17 & 18) immediately across from, Citizen’s Park, a major public park in the Jinan East New Town district planned by the Municipal Government.

The concept envisions a large scale mixed use project where a person can work, shop, dine, entertain and be entertained, all without leaving the project. While the different program components (Office, Observation, Restaurant and Retail) are distinct, the functions are conveniently integrated in a design that allows them to work well together. The composition of the complex is an excellent example of order and variety simultaneously achieved. The buildings all relate well to each other to work as an ensemble with three elegant, yet unassuming office towers providing the perfect accompaniment to the distinctive, iconic 950-foot (290-meter) tall signature tower.

The centerpiece for the Jinan Cheda International Financial Center is an intimate exhibition space with a sculptural form influenced by a traditional Chinese silver Yuan Bao or ingot. It is intended to be a cultural contribution of Shandong Qide Real Estate Co. to the community and is certain to become an icon, not only for Cheda and Jinan, but for China as well. A destination as well as a work of art, it is designed to be fun and functional, elegant and engaging.

PORTMAN CEO, Jack Portman expressed his excitement at the event, “We are pleased to be working with the Shandong Qide Real Estate Co. on such an impressive project, and honored to be able to participate in assisting to evolve the vision for an even stronger Jinan.”

An internationally recognized architectural design firm founded in 1953, PORTMAN has been working in China for over 30 years, and, in fact, designed the highly successful Shandong Hotel and People’s Hall, also in Jinan. The firm is known for designing buildings that deliver a memorable experience for those who use them and offer a sound investment for those who own and operate them.