The design for Suzhou Free Trade Zone Business Centre in Jiangsu Province, China, recognises changing workplace aspirations. It provides an innovative environment that is responsive to current customer needs, as well as the flexibility to adapt to future demands of the park, its workforce and its community. The building is articulated as three elements separated by green networks of ‘vertical villages', designed for the wellness and amenity of occupants. Inspired by the ancient public spaces and street networks of Suzhou, the ground plane is opened up as a generous series of public spaces, built around a public plaza courtyard and internal street. The project was commissioned through an international design competition, and following the award the client has further enhanced the architect’s concept by incorporating additional community facilities within the roof-garden area, including a library, workshops and recreational spaces. The modified design connects the large covered entry plaza with two Metro stations and sunken gardens.