• Petal shaped zero energy twin tower in Dubai

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    Architecture is so interesting. That’s probably why Ayn Rand’s Fountain Head created so much interest into architecture at the time. XTEN Architecture’s entry for the ThyssenKrupp elevator competition in Dubai is something that will make heads turn. The Za’abeel Park Observation (ZPO) Tower is designed like two huge petals, according to a traditional Islamic geometric pattern found in the regions’ decorative arts with the intention to be built as a net zero energy tower. Hundred square meters of thin film photovoltaic solar will clad the horizontal planes of the upper petal roofs and the Southern, Western and Eastern exposures of the tower. The main program areas are located beneath landforms with green roofs to reduce solar gain. Geothermal cooling and ventilation will serve these program areas. All the water used on the site will be recycled, and the majority of the building materials will come from recycled sources. Estimates are that the solar energy alone will generate enough electricity to illuminate and power the building.


    The Islamic pattern is rendered in different grasses and plantings at a larger scale over these landforms, with the intention that they are accessible for the public to climb upon and to sit to watch the crowds or the lights of the tower above. It will also provide spaces for parking, conference center, children’s library and service areas. The first petal is aligned with Mecca, to the Southwest of the project site and the second petal is directed toward the old town of Deira in Dubai.
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    [Archdaily]

    Posted in Topics:Architecture, Tags: , on June 8, 2009