A Look Inside an Apartment Block That Houses Over 20,000 Residents in a Dystopian Setting

Inside the Massive Apartment Block That Houses Over 20,000 People

A recent viral TikTok video stunned viewers by showcasing an enormous residential building in China, often referred to as the “Dystopian Apartment.” This massive structure, which can accommodate up to 30,000 residents, was filmed using a drone by user @fatheristheone, offering a glimpse into its unique design and vast scale.

A Glimpse into a Dystopian-Style Living Space

When people hear the word “dystopian,” they often think of fictional societies controlled by oppressive governments or futuristic settings where personal freedoms are stripped away. While most dystopian stories remain fictional, some urban developments seem to blur the line between reality and sci-fi.

One such place is Regent International, a colossal apartment complex located in Qianjiang Century City, Hangzhou, China. Designed by Alicia Loo, the chief designer behind Singapore’s Sands Hotel, this high-rise was completed in 2013. Standing 675 feet tall, it consists of 36 to 39 floors (depending on the side) and is home to approximately 20,000 residents, making it one of the most densely populated residential buildings in the world.

Self-Sufficient Living in an S-Shaped Skyscraper

Unlike traditional apartments, Regent International is designed to be a fully self-contained city under one roof. With more than 30 floors, the complex houses an array of amenities, including:

✅ Restaurants & Cafés – No need to step outside for a meal
✅ Grocery Stores – Stock up on essentials within walking distance
✅ Pools & Nail Salons – Luxuries typically found in resorts
✅ Internet Cafés & Workspaces – Ideal for young professionals and influencers

With everything available on-site, some residents rarely leave the building, raising concerns about access to fresh air and natural sunlight. However, residents are not forced to stay indoors—many are young professionals, college students, or social media influencers who choose this lifestyle for its affordability and convenience.

A Cost-Effective Housing Solution

One of the biggest advantages of living in Regent International is its affordable rent. Units vary in size and price, typically ranging from:

💰 1,500 RMB (~$200) per month for smaller units
💰 4,000 RMB (~$600) per month for larger, more spacious apartments

This cost-effectiveness makes the building an attractive option, especially for those seeking budget-friendly housing in a major city. Some urban planners have even praised it as one of the most sustainable residential buildings ever created.

Could This Be the Future of Housing?

As housing shortages continue in many parts of the world, including the United States, high-density living solutions like Regent International could offer a potential fix. The city of Whittier, Alaska, has already adopted a similar concept. Its 14-story Begich Towers houses nearly all of the town’s 272 residents and even includes a church, school, post office, and police station—all under one roof.

Challenges of High-Density Living

While Regent International offers many benefits, it also has drawbacks. The reason why some call it a “dystopian apartment” is that living with tens of thousands of neighbors might not appeal to everyone.

🔹 Limited Privacy – Unlike suburban homes with backyards, residents live in close quarters
🔹 Lack of Outdoor Space – Some units don’t have balconies, meaning fresh air access is restricted
🔹 Cultural Differences – Americans, for example, value privacy and personal space, which might make this lifestyle challenging

For those concerned about space, larger apartments with balconies are available, providing more comfort and a better living experience.

Would You Live in a Dystopian-Style Apartment?

The idea of an ultra-dense living complex sparks mixed reactions. Some see it as an efficient, cost-effective solution for urban housing, while others view it as a claustrophobic and impersonal way to live.

What do you think? Would you consider living in a place like Regent International? Drop a comment and let us know!

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