Abstract: An in-depth exploration of the top-down method for large-scale basement excavation and construction in saturated soft clay area in Shanghai is introduced with respect to its application, design difficulties as well as techniques to mitigate deformation and to ensure safety and stability of the excavation. Researches are carried out with the reference to the top-down method applied to the basement construction under podium of Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China when it is completed, which will stand at a height of 632 m in Lujiazui CBD area. It is intended to serve as a future reference for similar projects.