China's skyscraper age is likely coming to an end

AT more than 2,000 feet (610 metres), Shanghai Tower is the world's second-tallest building. It looms over its neighbours - the world's ninth and 19th tallest buildings - in a supercluster of supertall structures unlike any other in the world. The only problem? Finding people to work there: Only 60 per cent of Shanghai Tower is rented out, and only a third of current tenants have actually occupied their leased space.

In this sense, Shanghai Tower signifies the end of an era. Its plight suggests some major changes are afoot in the real-estate market - and, more significantly, in how the professional class lives and works in China.

For two decades, Shanghai's skyline has symbolised China's economic renaissance and modernisation. That's by intention.