A viral TikTok video recently featured a massive building in China, referred to as the “Dystopian Apartment,” which has the capacity to house up to 30,000 residents. The video was shared by user @fatheristheone, who used a drone to capture the size and unique design of this incredible structure. The footage left viewers in awe, both due to the scale of the building and its intriguing interior layout.

Many people are familiar with the concept of a dystopian society, often described in novels as a society living under fear or devoid of basic human rights. While these dystopian settings are typically works of fiction, they sometimes serve as a cautionary tale. In China, however, there is now a real-life apartment complex capable of housing a massive population. This building not only includes residential spaces but is also equipped with numerous amenities for everyday life.

Features of the “Dystopian Apartment”

The building in question is the Regent International apartment, located in Qianjiang Century City, Hangzhou. It was designed by Alicia Loo, the same architect responsible for the iconic Sands Hotel in Singapore. Completed in 2013, the structure stands at an impressive 675 feet tall and houses about 20,000 people. The building has an S-shaped design and varies in height, with either 36 or 39 floors, depending on which side of the structure you look at. It is considered one of the most densely populated residential buildings in the world.

Regent International is much more than just an apartment building; it functions almost like a self-contained city. With over 30 floors, it offers various amenities such as restaurants, swimming pools, nail salons, grocery stores, and even internet cafes. Virtually everything a resident could need is available within the building itself, which is why it has earned its “dystopian” nickname. However, it’s important to note that the residents are not confined to the building and can leave whenever they wish. Most of the residents are young professionals, college students, or influencers, who appreciate the affordability and convenience offered by living in such a place.

The Convenience of Living in Regent International

One of the main draws of Regent International is the convenience it provides. With all necessities available under one roof, residents save time and effort in their daily routines. Additionally, affordability is a key selling point for many. Apartments come in various sizes and rental prices, ranging from around 1,500 RMB (approximately $200) to 4,000 RMB (just under $600) per month. For residents, particularly those just starting out in their careers, this cost-effective living arrangement offers significant benefits.

While some may feel uneasy about the idea of living in a building labeled as “dystopian,” others praise its innovative and sustainable design. In fact, it has even been called “the most sustainable living building on earth,” due to its ability to house so many people in such an efficient manner.

A Possible Solution for Housing Shortages?

As the U.S. faces its own housing crisis, some see the concept of a “dystopian apartment” as a potential solution to increasing population density without taking up too much land. Interestingly, a similar model already exists in Whittier, Alaska. In this small town, all 272 residents live in a single 14-story building, which was originally a hotel before being converted into apartments. This building provides many amenities, including a school, post office, church, and even a police station, much like Regent International.

Potential Drawbacks of Dystopian Living

Of course, as with any living arrangement, there are both benefits and drawbacks to living in such a densely populated building. The term “dystopian apartment” has been used for a reason, after all. One concern is the sheer number of people living in one place, which could lead to a lack of privacy and personal space—something that many Americans value deeply. In the U.S., people typically prefer more space between themselves and their neighbors, along with outdoor areas like yards for relaxation or pets to play in.

A key downside to living in such a massive building is the limited access to fresh air and outdoor spaces. However, some residents have found ways to mitigate this issue. Larger units in Regent International come equipped with balconies, offering some access to the outdoors, while others can simply take a walk outside to get a breath of fresh air. Despite these concerns, for many, the benefits of convenience and affordability outweigh the potential disadvantages of living in such a densely populated environment.