CTBUH 2025: NorthGlass Explores the Art of Pushing Architectural Glass Boundaries

At the recently concluded CTBUH 2025 China Conference in Shanghai, global leaders in architecture engaged in in-depth discussions on the theme “Transforming High-Density Cities Toward Sustainable Development.” NorthGlass participated in the event, with Mr. Li Chunchao, Marketing Director and Deputy General Manager of the Processed Glass BU, delivering a keynote speech titled “Beyond Glass — How NorthGlass Empowers High-Rises to Achieve High-Quality Green Development.” His presentation highlighted how NorthGlass continuously expands both the physical and aesthetic boundaries of glass through sustained technological innovation, driving architecture toward greener, more livable cities.

The conference brought together top architectural practices—including Zaha Hadid Architects, Snøhetta, OMA, KPF, Foster + Partners, and SOM—as well as leading academic institutions, major developers, and industry associations to explore sustainable pathways for future cities.

In his speech, Mr. Li explained the deeper meaning behind the phrase: “Standards apply to products, but not to art.” While technological breakthroughs define the physical limits of glass, the pursuit of aesthetic extremes defines its expressive power in architecture. NorthGlass’ mission is not only to manufacture glass but also to help architects realize their boldest visions. Achieving this requires the ability to transform “non-standard innovation” into “high-standard engineering reality.”

NorthGlass’ achievements are visible worldwide: from the National Centre for the Performing Arts, Apple Park, and Huawei Headquarters, to the Guinness-record façade glass of Taikang Tower, and the 11.5-ton self-supporting giant glass panels of the Beijing Sub-Center Library. Most recently, NorthGlass produced nearly 70,000 m² of curved glass—including multi-curved, concave-curved, and saddle-shaped geometries—for the OPPO Global Headquarters in Shenzhen, pushing fabrication precision and technical complexity to new heights. Each project represents NorthGlass’ successful exploration beyond standardized production into the realms of complex geometries, super-large formats, and extreme precision, continuously redefining the boundaries of glass aesthetics.

Powered by its dual-engine model of equipment + products, NorthGlass has grown into an industry leader with exports to more than 110 countries. Its presentation at CTBUH not only showcased its comprehensive capabilities—from technology to aesthetics—but also demonstrated that Chinese glass manufacturers, backed by strong innovation capabilities, are actively shaping the sustainable future of high-density cities worldwide.

Selected NorthGlass Curtain Wall Projects