SOM Designs Landmark Mixed-Use Tower Complex for the New City of Alatau in Kazakhstan

"The Almaty-Qonaev highway is considered an important section of the Western Europe-Western China transport corridor connecting Europe, China, and Central Asian countries under the "New Silk Road" initiative. The new city is located within a Special Economic Zone spanning over 97,900 hectares, which provides incentives for the growth of high-tech industries, investment attraction, and the support of entrepreneurial initiatives."

"Alatau is planned to span 88,000 hectares across four districts: a full-scale tourism cluster with a year-round integrated resort; an export-oriented industrial and logistics zone designed for manufacturing and international trade; a territory dedicated to scientific development, higher education, and a medical cluster; and a major financial and business hub with mixed office spaces, shopping galleries, leisure, and entertainment facilities."

"SOM's design is expected to serve as the city's economic and administrative nucleus, establishing the central business district of Alatau City and setting a benchmark for future investment projects in the area. The general plan includes express rail and Light Rail Transit (LRT) corridors, green boulevards, shaded streets, and public plazas."

Skidmore, Owings & Merrill revealed a landmark project in Alatau, Kazakhstan, consisting of two towers and a master plan for the Gateway District. Located along the Almaty-Qonaev highway, a key section of the Western Europe-Western China transport corridor, Alatau is a new city planned to become an international investment hub within a Special Economic Zone spanning 97,900 hectares. The city's master plan extends through 2050, with major infrastructure completion targeted for 2030. Alatau comprises four districts: a tourism cluster, an industrial and logistics zone, a scientific and medical development area, and a financial and business hub. SOM's tower complex anchors the Gateway District, designed as a walkable, dense neighborhood featuring express rail, Light Rail Transit corridors, green boulevards, and public plazas.

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