Empirical Research and Optimization Strategies for the Retrofitting and Renewal of Existing Super High-Rise Buildings from the Perspective of Urbanity

As a dominant typology of urban development and a critical component of public infrastructure, super high-rise buildings have transitioned from a speed-driven expansion model to one that emphasizes a balanced approach between development pace and quality. Within the context of urban stock renewal, numerous super high-rise buildings now face pressing needs for retrofitting to enhance their sustainability and urban integration. This study establishes “urbanity”—defined as the capacity of the built environment to foster vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable urban life—as a core evaluation criterion for assessing the retrofitting and renewal of super high-rise buildings. Based on a comprehensive literature review and field investigations, 21 representative indicators were identified, and the key factors influencing the upgrading of such buildings were determined. Subsequently, 20 super high-rise buildings in Shanghai were selected as case studies, and their urbanity performance was assessed using a fuzzy comprehensive evaluation model (FCEM). The findings reveal common challenges, including architectural homogenization, functional singularity, limited vitality in near-ground spaces, weak integration with surrounding infrastructure, and inefficient utilization of urban landscape resources. Furthermore, the study analyzes urbanity-oriented enhancement strategies implemented in the selected cases and proposes targeted improvement measures across five key dimensions: building morphology, functional configuration, near-ground space, infrastructure, and urban landscape. The research contributes to the body of knowledge on sustainable urban regeneration by providing a practical evaluation framework and actionable strategies for retrofitting super high-rise buildings. The findings aim to support more livable, inclusive, and resilient urban environments, with implications for both Chinese and global cities facing similar challenges in high-density urban contexts.