Xi’an Taikoo Li Phase I tops out, marking key construction milestone

The first phase of Xi'an Taikoo Li has reached structural completion, marking a key milestone in the development of the mixed-use project near the Small Wild Goose Pagoda in Xi'an, Northwest China's Shaanxi province.

Developed by Swire Properties in partnership with a state-owned enterprise under the Xi'an Qujiang New District Management Committee, the project has a gross floor area of 269,056 square meters. It is the largest Taikoo Li development on the Chinese mainland and forms part of Swire Properties' HKD 50 billion investment plan on the Chinese mainland.

The project is designed as a low-rise, open-block complex combining retail, hospitality and cultural spaces. It is expected to bring together nearly 500 retail brands, as well as a House Collective hotel and serviced residences. Full structural completion is scheduled for early 2027, with phased handover and openings expected later that year.

Located next to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Small Wild Goose Pagoda and the historic Jianfu Temple, the project incorporates elements of the surrounding heritage into its design. Three historic streets on the site — Qiheng Street, Baheng Street and Yiziheng Street — have been preserved and adapted for reuse as part of the modern development.

The project also incorporates a range of energy-saving and low-carbon technologies, including a smart energy management system, green electricity for construction and ground-source heat pumps. Nearly 50 green and smart technologies are being adopted to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

Xi'an Taikoo Li has received or secured pre-certifications including LEED Platinum for building design and construction, WELL Platinum for healthy buildings and SITES Platinum for landscape. It has also been selected as a National Advanced Low-Carbon Technology Demonstration Project by the National Development and Reform Commission.

Swire Properties Chief Executive Tim Blackburn said the topping-out marks an important milestone for the project and reflects the company's long-term commitment to Xi'an. He said the project seeks to integrate local cultural elements with contemporary design while supporting the city's continued development.

The Xi'an Beilin district government and Xi'an Qujiang New District Management Committee said the project is an important part of the renewal of the area around the Small Wild Goose Pagoda. They highlighted its integration of heritage preservation with modern urban development and said they would continue to support the project's construction and completion.