The authorship of the design of the complex belongs to Zaha Hadid in association with Patrik Schumacher. The project includes four elliptical towers clad in panels of glass, stone and sparkling aluminum, while its interior incorporates stainless steel and gypsum board. A network of platforms and bridges connects the structure of the building, linking them into one seemingly continuous building. Galaxy SOHO is reminiscent of previous works from Hadid, shunning rectangularity in favor of curving forms. According to the architects, it is a building "without corners or abrupt transitions." Located next to the Eastern second ring road in the center of Beijing, it contains offices, shops and entertainment venues.

The building's interior is a reflection of traditional Chinese architecture where courtyards create an array of continuous open spaces. It is not a classical center composed of rigid blocks, but instead comprised of volumes that coalesce to create a world of continuous mutual adaptation and fluid movement between each building. Shifting plateaus within the design impact upon each other to generate a deep sense of immersion and envelopment.

The design follows sun-path movements, which allow natural light to enter the building as well as the surroundings. The shifting plateaus in the building attribute to a deep sense of interest and envelopment. The building is designed according to a series of green building strategies for achieving LEED certification.

Some of the green features of the building include a cooled roof that reduces the heat island effect. Water efficient fixtures and use of gray water reduces about 20% of the water consumption in the building.

Efficient lighting equipment, double silver low-E glass and chillers can save nearly 14% of the energy costs annually. Green refrigerant substance has been used in the building to decrease global warming and ozone depletion.

According to Zaha Hadid herself, the design of her building corresponds to the variegated context of the dynamic architecture of Beijing. "After analyzing the traditional urban fabric, including the "matter" of modern residential areas, we presented our interpretation inspired by nature: we created a series of public spaces and changed the urban landscape, " says the famous architect.