UK-based Atkins has started construction on the Vingroup skyscraper Vincom Landmark 81 in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Atkins is the lead architect on the project, and will co-ordinate with Arup for its structural design.
The 241,000m² superfall development is expected to reach a height of 460m, and have 81 storeys.
The building, to be developed in one of the most desired locations in Ho Chi Minh, is claimed to be the tallest in the country.
UK Prime Minister David Cameron said: "Atkins and Arup are leading the way in unlocking the potential for British businesses in Vietnam.
"It’s a testament to their expertise that Ho Chi Minh City’s skyline will be shaped by British design, as they work on Vietnam’s tallest skyscraper."
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By GlobalDataIn addition to architecture, Atkins will also be responsible for the landscape design.
The frontage of the landmark structure will face the Saigon River, while the site is facilitated by major road and water transport connections.
Construction has been scheduled for completion in 2017.
Planned to be a mixed-use development, the building will feature modern and unusual architectural design, which is expected to symbolise the diversity and development of the Vietnamese city.
It will also feature contemporary landscape design, including aspects of natural beauty.
The skyscraper will have allocated spaces for a hotel, serviced residential apartments and retail stores, as well as an extensive shopping centre at its base, with high-end retailers.
Atkins Asia Pacific architecture and landscape director Bertil de Kleynen said: "Our challenge was to create a unique and dynamic landmark tower design to support Vingroup’s vision for a high-end, mixed-use development.
"The tower is integrated into the public realm that addresses sustainable design challenges at various interfaces of the project.
"On July 17, we have signed a strategic partnership agreement with Vingroup that will bring us more opportunities to cooperate beyond this projects."
Image: Atkins-designed Vincom Landmark 81 supertall skyscraper in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Photo: courtesy of Atkins.