In February 2024, a TikTok video went viral, showcasing a massive apartment complex in China known as the “Dystopian Apartment.” The video, shared by @fatheristheone, used a drone to capture the building’s immense size and unusual design, leaving viewers in awe. It’s capable of housing up to 30,000 residents, making it one of the largest residential buildings in the world.

The term “dystopian” often brings to mind a bleak society stripped of humanity, usually depicted in fictional novels. However, this high-rise in China seems to have made the concept somewhat real, offering a self-contained living space that’s equipped with all the essentials.

Features of the ‘Dystopian’ Apartment

The building in question is the Regent International, located in Qianjiang Century City, Hangzhou. It was designed by Alicia Loo, who also worked on the iconic Singapore Sands Hotel. Completed in 2013, the building stands at 675 feet tall and accommodates around 20,000 people. Its unique S-shaped design spans 36 to 39 floors, depending on which side you view it from, making it one of the most densely populated complexes worldwide.

Inside, Regent International is like a mini-city. It has over 30 floors filled with amenities, including restaurants, pools, nail salons, grocery stores, and internet cafes. This setup makes it possible for residents to have everything they need without ever leaving the building. From daily necessities to leisure activities, all can be found within the complex.

Life Inside Regent International

For the residents of Regent International, convenience is the biggest appeal. Most of them are young professionals, influencers, or college students who find this type of living both affordable and efficient. Monthly rent ranges from 1,500 RMB (about $200) to 4,000 RMB (under $600), depending on the unit size. For many, it’s an ideal setup—cost-effective and close to work or school.

Despite being called a “dystopian apartment,” not all residents are unhappy with this lifestyle. In fact, some consider it a groundbreaking approach to sustainable living. The building has been praised for maximizing space and reducing urban sprawl, earning the title of “the most sustainable living building on earth.” However, others worry that this kind of dense living could lead to isolation, lack of sunlight, and limited opportunities for fresh air.

A Solution to Urban Housing?

With the current housing crisis in the U.S., high-density living spaces like Regent International could offer a viable solution. The idea of concentrating a large number of residents in one building without consuming too much land has already been tried elsewhere, like Whittier, Alaska. There, a 14-story building serves as a home for all 272 residents, functioning like a vertical town with amenities such as a school, post office, and police station.

Possible Downsides

While the “dystopian apartment” may solve some housing problems, it also comes with drawbacks. Americans, for instance, generally value privacy, outdoor space, and personal yards—qualities that are limited in high-density buildings. It’s hard for many to imagine living in such a setting without feeling confined. Limited personal space and minimal access to the outdoors could be challenging for those who prefer spacious, open environments.

However, the downsides can be mitigated. For instance, larger units in Regent International come with balconies, providing a bit more breathing room. Residents can also take walks in nearby areas, ensuring they don’t miss out on fresh air and sunlight entirely.

Would You Live in a ‘Dystopian’ Apartment?

The concept of high-density living, like Regent International, is divisive. On one hand, it offers unmatched convenience, affordability, and a sustainable way of managing urban space. On the other hand, it lacks the privacy and outdoor space many people are accustomed to.

So, is the “Dystopian Apartment” a glimpse of the future or a reality that’s too cramped to bear? Would you consider living in such a place, or do you prefer the more traditional, sprawling suburban lifestyle? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!