The Mall at the Center of the Universe

Contributions from individuals with unique perspectives to share. Hear from everyone, from experts and commentators to those whose voices are often marginalized.

VOICES & OPINION

The Wanjiali International Mall wants to be everything to everyone. Can it succeed?

Are China’s Architects Out of Touch?

The profession, like many others, has come under populist attack in recent years.

The Hunt for China’s Ugliest Building

For 13 years, the “China’s Ugliest Buildings” poll has documented the misfires and gambles that defined the country’s urban building spree. What can the results teach us about taste in architecture?

How Hangzhou Freed West Lake and Upended Chinese Tourism 

Twenty years ago last month, Hangzhou made West Lake the first top-rated scenic area in China to offer free admission. Why hasn’t the rest of the country followed suit?

Can China’s Skyscraper Capital Come Down to Earth?

For decades, Shenzhen has adopted a brash approach to turning itself into a global hub: the bigger, faster, and more ostentatious, the better. Can the same approach make it a cultural center?

China Asks: How Many Cultural Landmarks Is Too Many?

Chinese cities have established thousands of new museums over past two decades, but construction is all too often motivated by dreams of real estate riches rather than accessibility.