Architecture practice RMJM's Shenzhen office just won a design competition for a new observation tower in the southern Chinese city of Zhuhai. Inspired by Doumen district's traditional water culture, the architects designed the skyscraper in the image of a jumping fish by covering the twisting structure in a scaly facade. The iconic tower will serve as a major city landmark and will be prominently located at the confluence of two major rivers in the center of the city's new promenade development.

Measuring nearly 100 meters in height, the Zhuhai Observation Tower will be clad in 1,400 perforated aluminum panels that will give the building its fish-like look and protect the tower from the sun. Composed of twelve two-dimensional curves, the skyscraper's likeness to a jumping fish symbolizes the prosperity and rapid transformation of Zhuhai. Since the tower will be integrated in an urban promenade, RMJM minimized the building's footprint in order to make room for pedestrian-oriented landscape elements and recreational activities. Cafes and restaurants will also be located on the first floor of the tower to help spur activity in the plaza square.

The mixed-use tower is split into three main activity zones: the ground podium with retail and restaurants, the leisure activity zone in the middle, and an observation deck on the top floor that will offer 360-degree views.