"Linked Hybrid is no more isolationist than Greenwich Village in New York, " he says.

CNN: Beijing embraces Brave New World of buildings

This, he contends, cannot be done within Linked Hybrid where the inhabitant takes on more of an observational role.

CNN: Beijing embraces Brave New World of buildings

However, for all its plaudits, the Linked Hybrid project has attracted many criticisms.

CNN: Beijing embraces Brave New World of buildings

Sound Off: Tell us what you think of the Linked Hybrid project.

CNN: Beijing embraces Brave New World of buildings

For Washington-based architect and urbanist, Howard Decker, buildings like Linked Hybrid form part of the problem and not the solution, although he applauds the efforts to "green-up" the project.

CNN: Beijing embraces Brave New World of buildings

Linked Hybrid is sited just 2.5 miles from the Forbidden City and its residents can apparently see into the former palace on a "clear day, " Holl tells CNN.

CNN: Beijing embraces Brave New World of buildings