A recent viral TikTok video has brought global attention to a colossal residential building in China that many are now calling the “Dystopian Apartment.” Shared by user @fatheristheone, the video was filmed using a drone, showcasing the massive scale, intricate interior, and unique S-shaped design of the structure. While the footage stunned viewers with the sheer size of the building, it also sparked discussions about the implications of such densely populated living spaces and whether they symbolize an efficient modern solution or a troubling glimpse into a dystopian future.
The building in question, Regent International, is located in Qianjiang Century City, Hangzhou. Designed by Alicia Loo, the chief architect behind Singapore’s iconic Marina Bay Sands Hotel, Regent International opened in 2013. Standing at an impressive 675 feet tall, it spans between 36 and 39 floors, depending on the side of the structure. With a capacity to accommodate up to 30,000 residents and currently housing approximately 20,000, the building is considered one of the most densely populated residential spaces in the world.
At first glance, the concept of so many people living under one roof may sound alarming—something straight out of a dystopian novel. The term “dystopia” often conjures up images of a bleak society, stripped of individuality and joy, much like the worlds described in cautionary fiction. However, for many of Regent International’s residents, life inside this vast complex is far from grim. Instead, they see it as a practical, affordable, and modern solution to urban living challenges.
Regent International is essentially a self-contained city, designed to offer everything a resident could need without ever leaving the building. The complex features a wide array of amenities, including grocery stores, restaurants, internet cafes, nail salons, and even swimming pools. Fitness centers, recreational spaces, and other conveniences allow residents to live comfortably, work, and enjoy leisure activities all under one roof. This “all-in-one” design reduces the need for long commutes, making it particularly attractive to young professionals, college students, and social media influencers who lead busy lives.
One of the most significant draws of living at Regent International is its affordability. Units are available in various sizes and price ranges, making the building accessible to a wide demographic. Rent starts at 1,500 RMB (roughly $200) per month for smaller spaces and can go up to 4,000 RMB (just under $600) for larger units. In cities where housing costs can be prohibitively expensive, Regent International offers a rare combination of affordability and convenience.
Despite its benefits, critics remain skeptical of the concept, which is why the building earned its “dystopian” nickname. Some express concerns about the potential lack of fresh air, sunlight, and opportunities for outdoor experiences. They argue that a living environment so densely packed could feel isolating or unnatural, echoing themes often explored in dystopian fiction. Drone footage of the building’s vast interiors and crowded layout has only fueled this perception.
However, it’s important to note that residents are not confined to the building, nor are they required to live in isolation. In reality, most people who live in Regent International lead normal, active lives, with many choosing to reside there because of its affordability and convenience. The complex is particularly popular among younger generations who value its practicality, allowing them to balance work, life, and leisure with ease.
Interestingly, the Regent International building has also been praised for its innovative and sustainable design. With its vertical layout, the structure efficiently utilizes limited urban land while minimizing its environmental footprint. By consolidating living spaces and shared amenities, it reduces resource consumption and optimizes energy use, leading some to call it “the most sustainable living building on earth.” In a time when cities around the world are grappling with housing shortages and environmental concerns, Regent International serves as an intriguing model for the future of urban development.
This concept of high-density, self-contained living spaces is not unique to China. A similar example can be found in Whittier, Alaska, where an entire town resides in a single 14-story building. Originally built as a military facility, the structure has since been transformed into a multi-use complex that houses 272 residents. Much like Regent International, the Whittier building includes a range of essential services such as a school, church, post office, and police station. It serves as a self-sustaining community, demonstrating how innovative design can make efficient use of limited space.
In the United States, where housing shortages and land scarcity are growing challenges, the idea of “vertical cities” like Regent International could offer a promising solution. While some remain uneasy about the “dystopian” label, others recognize the potential for such buildings to address urban density, affordability, and sustainability. By integrating residential spaces with essential services and amenities, structures like these allow cities to accommodate expanding populations without sacrificing comfort or functionality.
Ultimately, the perception of Regent International—and buildings like it—depends largely on perspective. For its critics, the massive scale and dense population evoke concerns about overcrowding and loss of humanity. For its supporters, the building represents innovation, sustainability, and an efficient response to modern housing challenges.
Whether viewed as dystopian or visionary, Regent International raises important questions about the future of urban living. As cities continue to grow and evolve, the demand for creative, space-saving solutions will only increase. Regent International stands as a thought-provoking example of how architecture and design can redefine the way we live, work, and interact in a rapidly changing world.
