Global architecture and design firm Atkins has been appointed to design a landmark development in Changsha, China.

Atkins is working closely with developer Changsha Northstar Real Estate Development Company to create a the Northstar Changsha Centre, which will include a 400m (1,312ft) landmark tower.

Situated in Hunan province, Changsha is one of China’s most economically advanced cities. Already acting as a commercial and industrial hub, this development will offer new spaces for cultural, retail and commercial activities.

The tower itself will be mainly used as office space, however, the surrounding site, also masterminded by Atkins, will offer a regional convention centre, department stores, serviced apartments and a five-star hotel.

Ian Milne, Atkins’ senior design director said: “Our design ambition is to create a spectacular centrepiece to this important new urban quarter. Connectivity is a major concept in our design and we want to connect not only places, but people.”

An open civic plaza will link the two main elements of the site, the tower and the convention centre, offering more space for cultural and recreational activities. The overall design focuses on sustainability and aims to keep the scheme as pedestrian friendly as possible by offering elevated walkways connecting the buildings.

As of yet, no timescale nor budget has been announced for the project.