Design Boom
About the Publisher
-----
Contact Information
Email Address-----
Company Phone-----
Address-----
Socials
Facebook-----
Instagram-----
LinkedIn-----
Filters
By Country
54
articles found
View by
Design Boom
Singapore Art Week 2025 Returns For Its 13Th Edition With A Feast For The SensesSingapore Art Week (SAW) 2025 is set to electrify the island with its 13th edition, running from January 17 to 26, 2025. Featuring over 130 events, this ten-day visual arts celebration transforms Singapore into a dynamic stage for creativity, collaboration, and community engagement. SAW showcases both local and international talents across galleries, public spaces, and unconventional venues, offering an immersive art experience for all.
View of S.E.A. Focus 2024. Image courtesy of the National Arts Council | all images courtesy of Singapore Art Week
As Southeast Asia’s premier visual arts season, Singapore Art Week has become synonymous with originality and inclusivity in the arts. Organized by the National Arts Council (NAC), SAW continues its tradition of fostering collaboration and community. The 2025 tagline, Art Takes Over, embraces diverse artistic expressions, spanning mediums and disciplines, while creating a platform for emerging voices and seasoned creatives.
Highlights include marquee events like ‘ART SG’, ‘S.E.A. Focus’, and ‘Light to Night,’ as well as the highly anticipated return of the Singapore Pavilion’s ‘Seeing Forest’ by Robert Zhao Renhui from the Biennale Arte 2024 in Venice. With free entry to many exhibitions, public art performances, and family-friendly activities, SAW 2025 ensures that art remains accessible to all.
‘Seeing Forest’ by Robert Zhao Renhui at Singapore Art Museum
The festivities kick off at Tanjong Pagar Distripark with ‘Yee I-Lann: Mansau Ansau,’ a poignant exploration of Southeast Asian indigenous narratives. Also during SAW, visitors are granted free access to many SAM exhibitions including ‘Seeing Forest,’ an immersive commentary on ecology and Singapore’s environmental histories. Complementing these exhibitions are the Sonic Sessions both SAW weekends (January 17-18, and 24-25), for an eclectic lineup of performances with acts like Subsonic Eye, Bakers In Space, Pleasantry and more.
For those seeking the unconventional, the ‘Con-Temporary Art’ travelling gallery offers a whimsical miniature white cube complete with tiny art displays, inviting audiences to view art in unexpected spaces. Meanwhile, the ‘SATS Experiential Center’ at The Arts House Annex blends culinary creativity with digital art in ‘DIGikat’ by Yang Derong, making it a must-visit destination for those who crave multisensory experiences.
Artwork by Arrvin Raj, part of travelling gallery ‘Con_Temporary Art’
‘Light to Night: Do You See Me?’ returns to illuminate the Civic District with a blend of thought-provoking art installations and mesmerizing light projections. This year’s theme invites visitors to reflect on visibility and perception, resonating deeply with Singapore’s ongoing celebration of its 60th anniversary. Other displays include the specially curated ‘Spectra’ light show at Marina Bay Sands, which integrates cutting-edge visuals, soundscapes, and water displays. Meanwhile, the Lewin Terrace in Fort Canning Park transforms into an 11th-century speculative fiction realm with ‘Before and After the Unknown,’ a multimedia exhibition by Mark Chua and Lam Li Shuen. Blending expanded cinema, video games, and sculptural art, the project reimagines Singapore’s past, merging botanical and historical fragments into a fantastical narrative.
Light to Night Singapore | image © National Gallery Singapore
As part of SAW, the National Gallery Singapore (NGS) honors the life and legacy of Kim Lim, a Singapore-born sculptor and printmaker, with the retrospective ‘Kim Lim: The Space Between.’ Running until February 2, 2025, this major exhibition features over 150 works, making it the most comprehensive showcase of Lim’s career. Her art reflects a distinctive Minimalist approach influenced by material cultures encountered during her extensive travels. The retrospective highlights key sculptures, prints, maquettes, and never-before-seen photographs, offering a profound exploration of her philosophy and her resistance to conventional identity frameworks. Kim Lim’s masterful balance of space, light, and rhythm underscores her enduring influence and the depth of her artistic vision.
‘Kim Lim: The Space Between.’
On the second weekend, the focus shifts to Gillman Barracks with ‘Techno Diversions: Nothing has to be the way it is’ by Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Centre for Contemporary Art Singapore. This exploration of technology and humanity culminates in ‘Art After Dark,’ two vibrant nights (January 24-25) of live music, drinks, and creativity featuring a line-up curated by New Mongrels ranging from hip hop and rock to electronic and R&B – with acts such as nkei, Bellied Star and rhyu.
The ‘Pierre Lorinet Collection: Space at New Bahru’ explores the multifaceted concept of space, featuring an exclusive glimpse of works by Ugo Rondinone and Tracey Emin from the private collection of Pierre Lorinet. Highlights include Danh Vo’s recreation of the Statue of Liberty fragment and Sterling Ruby’s Thermohaline, which redefine the relationship between environment and memory.
Liz Deschenes, Gallery 4.1.1 (version 2) #2 | image © The Pierre Lorinet Collection: Space
Further, Affective Architecture at the Blackbox of 42 Waterloo Street explores how digital realms shape human emotion and perception. This immersive exhibition by new media artists such as Ong Kian Peng and Debbie Ding leverages virtual reality and expanded cinema to investigate themes of history, technology, and ecology, establishing an intricate web of interconnected narratives.
Other highlights of SAW include ‘Monet Inside,’ a media art exhibition that reinterprets the cherished masterpieces of Claude Monet, the painter of light, through a modern lens, accompanied by music. From his beginnings as an Impressionist in Paris to the grand saga of his Water Lilies series in Giverny, the exhibition showcases the radiant and passionate journey of the artist, who found glimmers of light even in the most challenging moments of his life.skyscraper
Dec 10, 2024
Design Boom
Selgascano + Frpo Plan Kaleidoscopic 'Rozafa Hotel Tower' As Vivid Icon For Shkodra, AlbaniaSpanish architecture studios Selgascano and FRPO has designed the Rozafa Hotel Tower, a contemporary addition to Shkodra, Albania’s rich architectural tapestry. Shkodra, known for its cultural and historical significance, features a mix of Illyrian, Roman, Ottoman, Venetian, and neoclassical architectural influences. Selgascano’s approach respects this diversity, aiming to integrate the new tower into the city’s urban fabric while celebrating its heritage.
Strategically located, the hotel aspires to become an architectural icon that adds playful color and geometries to Shkodra’s skyline while encouraging economic and tourism development. The design prioritizes harmony with its surroundings by ensuring that the tower is perceived on a human scale. This approach aims to make the building feel like an integral part of the community, encouraging locals to embrace it as their own.
visualizations © Drawfield
Designing its Rozafa Hotel Tower, Selgascano and FRPO took inspiration from the site, with three primary facades oriented toward the region’s most notable features: the Albanian Alps, Rozafa Castle with the Drin and Buna rivers, and Shkodra Lake. Each lobe of the building is designed to maximize views in its direction, allowing residents and visitors to choose between Lakeview, Mountainview, or Riverview apartments.
The tower’s fragmented geometry creates dynamic facades that respond to the surrounding landscape while visually lightening the structure. This design reduces the perception of the building as a monolithic mass and enhances its integration into the urban and natural context. The varying facades also allow natural light to penetrate the interiors and create a shifting visual identity throughout the day.
Rozafa Hotel Tower by FRPO + Selgascano will enrich Shkodra’s urban and cultural landscape
The triangular plan ensures sunlight reaches the east, south, and west facades, while the building’s deep terraces provide shade and protection from Shkodra’s Mediterranean climate. These terraces, equipped with parasols and railings, extend the functionality of indoor spaces, improving energy efficiency and offering comfortable outdoor areas that connect users to the surrounding environment. Horizontal planes and a variety of wood textures give the tower a natural aesthetic that complements Shkodra’s environment. Yellow, orange, and light green accents on railings and parasols echo the city’s atmosphere and landscapes, enhancing the tower’s visual connection to its setting.
The tower is divided into three distinct sections: commercial spaces occupy the lower levels, residential units dominate the middle floors, and the upper levels house a luxury hotel. This organization minimizes mechanical requirements and ensures programmatic clarity, with dedicated elevators and services for each section. The tower’s lobed geometry creates three vertical crevices that house separate entrances for its commercial, residential, and hotel components. This thoughtful arrangement ensures easy access while maintaining a cohesive urban connection with the existing Rozafa Hotel.
the tower’s design balances iconic architecture with a human-scale approach
The residential units are designed for comfort, with layouts that maximize natural light and panoramic views. Protected terraces extend interior spaces, while wood finishes add warmth to the interiors. Glazed exteriors enhance the connection to the landscape while maintaining privacy and shading. The uppermost levels house a hotel that offers luxurious accommodations and services, including rooftop terraces with gardens, pools, and relaxation areas. These spaces provide guests with sweeping views of Shkodra’s natural and urban landscapes, creating an urban oasis at the tower’s peak.
The ground floors of the tower house commercial spaces, including shops, cafés, and retail outlets, designed to integrate with the surrounding streetscape. Transparent facades connect these areas with the city, fostering a lively urban environment.
three main facades offer views of the Albanian Alps, Rozafa Castle, and Shkodra Lake
dynamic geometries and textured facades enhance lightness and urban integrationskyscraper
Dec 10, 2024
Design Boom
Selgascano Plans Kaleidoscopic 'Rozafa Hotel Tower' As Vivid Icon For Shkodra, AlbaniaSpanish architecture studio Selgascano has designed the Rozafa Hotel Tower, a contemporary addition to Shkodra, Albania’s rich architectural tapestry. Shkodra, known for its cultural and historical significance, features a mix of Illyrian, Roman, Ottoman, Venetian, and neoclassical architectural influences. Selgascano’s approach respects this diversity, aiming to integrate the new tower into the city’s urban fabric while celebrating its heritage.
Strategically located, the hotel aspires to become an architectural icon that adds playful color and geometries to Shkodra’s skyline while encouraging economic and tourism development. The design prioritizes harmony with its surroundings by ensuring that the tower is perceived on a human scale. This approach aims to make the building feel like an integral part of the community, encouraging locals to embrace it as their own.
visualizations © Drawfield
Designing its Rozafa Hotel Tower, the architects at Selgascano took inspiration from the site, with three primary facades oriented toward the region’s most notable features: the Albanian Alps, Rozafa Castle with the Drin and Buna rivers, and Shkodra Lake. Each lobe of the building is designed to maximize views in its direction, allowing residents and visitors to choose between Lakeview, Mountainview, or Riverview apartments.
The tower’s fragmented geometry creates dynamic facades that respond to the surrounding landscape while visually lightening the structure. This design reduces the perception of the building as a monolithic mass and enhances its integration into the urban and natural context. The varying facades also allow natural light to penetrate the interiors and create a shifting visual identity throughout the day.
Rozafa Hotel Tower by Selgascano will enrich Shkodra’s urban and cultural landscape
The triangular plan ensures sunlight reaches the east, south, and west facades, while the building’s deep terraces provide shade and protection from Shkodra’s Mediterranean climate. These terraces, equipped with parasols and railings, extend the functionality of indoor spaces, improving energy efficiency and offering comfortable outdoor areas that connect users to the surrounding environment. Horizontal planes and a variety of wood textures give the tower a natural aesthetic that complements Shkodra’s environment. Yellow, orange, and light green accents on railings and parasols echo the city’s atmosphere and landscapes, enhancing the tower’s visual connection to its setting.
The tower is divided into three distinct sections: commercial spaces occupy the lower levels, residential units dominate the middle floors, and the upper levels house a luxury hotel. This organization minimizes mechanical requirements and ensures programmatic clarity, with dedicated elevators and services for each section. The tower’s lobed geometry creates three vertical crevices that house separate entrances for its commercial, residential, and hotel components. This thoughtful arrangement ensures easy access while maintaining a cohesive urban connection with the existing Rozafa Hotel.
the tower’s design balances iconic architecture with a human-scale approach
The residential units are designed for comfort, with layouts that maximize natural light and panoramic views. Protected terraces extend interior spaces, while wood finishes add warmth to the interiors. Glazed exteriors enhance the connection to the landscape while maintaining privacy and shading. The uppermost levels house a hotel that offers luxurious accommodations and services, including rooftop terraces with gardens, pools, and relaxation areas. These spaces provide guests with sweeping views of Shkodra’s natural and urban landscapes, creating an urban oasis at the tower’s peak.
The ground floors of the tower house commercial spaces, including shops, cafés, and retail outlets, designed to integrate with the surrounding streetscape. Transparent facades connect these areas with the city, fostering a lively urban environment.
three main facades offer views of the Albanian Alps, Rozafa Castle, and Shkodra Lake
dynamic geometries and textured facades enhance lightness and urban integrationskyscraper
Dec 10, 2024
Design Boom
Ole Scheeren Completes The Axiom As The Tallest Skyscraper In Shanghai'S Yangpu DistrictThe Axiom by architecture practice Büro Ole Scheeren is the tallest building at the heart of Yangpu District in northeast Shanghai, one of the city’s fastest-growing districts. It stands as a key gateway to The Springs, a new hub for innovation and creativity spearheaded by US real estate developer Tishman Speyer. With a unique offset core typology, the tower rises to 280 meters across 49 stories and is the first of two skyscrapers that will form the centerpiece of the Speyer development. The second tower is currently in construction and will reach 250 meters tall upon completion. Furthermore, the district has attracted renowned multinational brands, including Nike, ByteDance, and IBM, to open their regional headquarters in The Springs.
all images © Büro Ole Scheeren
The Axiom breaks away from the archetype of corporate towers with a twist on minimalism and functionalism, heralded by Mies van der Rohe’s Seagram building in New York. With China being home to more high-rises than any other country, the tower is a modern update to the corporate skyscraper archetype — providing over 185,000 sqm of offices, hotel, retail, and cultural facilities, with a theatre that stretches across both towers. Büro Ole Scheeren (see more here) even employs an offset core instead of the ubiquitous central-core typology, with the services and elevators protruding from the facade. This frees the interior floor plates of mechanical and structural obstructions, resulting in large, efficient, and adaptable workspaces catering to growing and established organizations. An offset core design is unique in buildings over 250 meters, making up just 3% of the world’s 500 tallest buildings. Liberated from columns and services, the floors can be easily configured, accommodating future business expansion, collaboration, and changing needs.
The Axiom rises to 280 meters across 49 stories
Central to Ole Scheeren’s design are carved volumetric openings that form the sculptural Sky Terraces. These mid-tower spaces house collaborative zones acting as social catalysts for The Springs and visually anchor the workspace. The terraces align with the heights of nearby buildings, providing harmonious proportions and a playful rhythm. Vertical bronze fins further enhance the architectural elegance, which offers sleek interior lighting and ventilation. The fluctuating width of the Sky Terraces, lined with gold edges, frames the panoramic views of Shanghai. The apertures look out to the city while creating a dramatic mid-point where the urban landscape can look back into The Axiom. Opposed to the muted shafts of corporate skyscrapers, the openings – alongside the illuminated elevators that visibly ascend and descend – offer glimpses into the tower and city at large.
breaking away from corporate towers archetype with a twist on minimalism and functionalism
The Sky Terrace is complemented by the Roof Oasis crowning the tower; it offers outdoor gardens with lush plant life and flowing water features for occupants that speak to the rich nature of the local district and nearby wetland eco-park. Additionally, The Axiom embeds itself in Shanghai with the Cultural Gate, a mixed-use podium that will connect the twin towers at its southern tips. The podium houses informal workspaces, public roof terraces, and cafes, bringing vitality throughout its surroundings. The Cultural Gate guides visitors into the center of The Springs and towards a multi-form theater for cultural events and activities, further dissolving the boundaries between the corporate function and public realm. ‘Designed as a strategic hybrid of functionalism and iconicity, the twin towers represent the fluidity and dynamism of the future-oriented businesses they will accommodate,’ concludes Ole Scheeren.
Ole Scheeren employs an offset core as opposed to the ubiquitous central-core typologyskyscraper
Nov 03, 2024
Design Boom
Zaha Hadid Architects Shares Progress On Central Bank Of Iraq Headquarters In BaghdadConstruction continues on the new 90,000 square-meters headquarters for the Central Bank of Iraq in Baghdad, designed by the late Zaha Hadid alongside Patrick Schumacher back in 2012. Conveying the core values of this national institution – resilience, stability and sustainability – the 170-meter tower is tailored to its very specific conditions within the city. Solid at its base, the bank’s structural facade gradually reduces as the tower rises above the banks of the River Tigris, peeling away in vertical layers to provide external shading to the tower’s double-insulated glazing.
render © Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA)
Narrow at its base, the Central Bank of Iraq widens in the middle to optimize the layout and increase efficiencies, and then tapers inwards towards the top. The tower’s grand atrium brings natural light to the heart of the building, opening it to the river. The team at ZHA envisioned the powerful structural exoskeleton as framing the facade which is itself composed of an alternating pattern of open and closed elements that visually and conceptually mimic the light reflecting from waves in the river below, reinforcing the dynamism of the design and serving the practical purpose of providing a variety of areas of light and shade within. The exoskeleton gradually opens and reduces as the tower rises skywards, bringing greater lightness and views across the capitol.
the tower spans 170 meters in height | image courtesy ZHA via Instagram
The exoskeleton peels away in vertical layers towards the river, further reinforcing this key contextual relationship with the Tigris. These layers extend the length of the tower and continue into the podium to connect the building’s separate elements and define the security features of the CBI. The exoskeleton’s inherent fluidity is both structural and architectural, wholly consistent with the engineering and that extends through the entire height of the structure. The bank’s podium weaves hard and soft landscaping together and anchors the building within its context; gradually adjusting its scale through of a series of landscaped terraces and gardens to directly engage with surrounding neighbourhood and manage access to the bank. The vertical layers of the tower’s exoskeleton are transformed to the horizontal podium and subtly re-emerge within the landscape.
image courtesy ZHA via Instagram
an alternating pattern of open and closed elements | image courtesy ZHA via Instagram
Central Bank of Iraq entrance | render © Zaha Hadid Architects
render © Zaha Hadid Architects
the Central Bank of Iraq HQ rises over the Tigris River | render © Zaha Hadid Architects
project info:
name: Central Bank of Iraq Headquarters
location: Baghdad, Iraq
architecture: Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) | @zahahadidarchitects
ZHA lead architects: Zaha Hadid and Patrick Schumacher
local architects: Dijlah Consulting Architects and Engineers
project director: Jim Heverin
project architect: Victor Orive
project associate: Sara Klomps
project team: Cynthia Du, Danilo Arsic, Electra Mikelides, Fabiano Continanza, Inês Fontoura, Juan Estrada Gomez, Maria Rodero, Ming Cheong, Mohamed Al-Jubori, Muriel Boselli, Osbert So, Peter Irmscher, Rafael Gonzalez, Renee Gao, Sara Criscenti, Thomas Frings project team (DD phase): Ana Cajiao, Andy Summers, Daghan Cam, Danilo Arsic, Electra Mikelides, Fabiano Continanza, Ganesh Nimmala, George King, Inês Fontoura, Lisa Curran, Maria Rodero, Ming Cheong, Mohamed Al-Jubori, Monica Jarpa, Rafael Gonzalez
project team (SD) phase: Ana Cajiao, Andy Summers, Danilo Arsic, Electra Mikelides, Fabiano Continanza, George King, Inês Fontoura, Mohamed Al-Jubori, Rafael Gonzalez, Sophie Davison
concept team: Charles Walker, Danilo Arsic, Fabiano Continanza, Inês Fontoura, Rafael Gonzalez,
Tiago Correia, Victor Orive
project period: 2012 – TBC
total area: 90,000 sqm
height: 170 mskyscraper
Nov 03, 2024
Design Boom
'Senna Tower' Designed By Brazilian Artist To Become World'S Tallest Residential SkyscraperBalneário Camboriú, a city in Brazil‘s Santa Catarina state, is set to make history with the Senna Tower, a 509-meter-tall structure that will become the tallest tower in Brazil and the tallest residential tower in the world. Known for its dramatic skyline of high-rise buildings, the coastal city is the ideal location for this ambitious project, which will redefine both the city’s architecture and the global skyscraper landscape.
The designer behind the Senna Tower is Brazilian artist Lalalli Senna, niece of legendary Formula One driver Ayrton Senna. Her design aims to honor her uncle’s ‘heroic journey,’ with the tower representing a symbolic intersection between the material and celestial worlds. This metaphor is made visible through the building’s slim, glass-clad form and a facade integrated with bands of lights that will extend to the tower’s crown, projecting upwards and contributing to its iconic appearance.
The Senna Tower is designed as is a tribute to Ayrton Senna, one of Brazil’s most beloved sports icons. The podium will include an immersive space dedicated to the late driver, featuring a race track that will serve as a reminder of his enduring legacy in both motorsports and Brazilian culture. visualizations © FG Empreendimentos
The Senna Tower is a collaboration between FG Empreendimentos, a prominent construction firm, and the Senna Brand, which carries forward Ayrton Senna’s legacy. Renderings of the project showcase a sleek and innovative structure, with terraces featuring pools and lush landscaping at the base. This project highlights the convergence of two influential Brazilian families, united by a shared vision to push the boundaries of design and innovation.
The tower will offer a wide array of facilities spread across multiple levels. Public spaces on the ground floor will include shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Higher floors will host amenities such as a heated pool, wellness center, tennis courts, and a gym. Residents will have access to elevated ‘mansions,’ duplex and triplex penthouses, and state-of-the-art recreational spaces, including a private garage club. The building will be topped by an observatory, offering panoramic views of the city and coastline.
rising 509 meters, the Senna Tower will become the world’s tallest residential building
As the first residential supertall building in both Brazil and Latin America to feature a Tuned Mass Damper, the Senna Tower sets a precedent for engineering excellence. This advanced system minimizes wind-induced motion, improving stability and comfort, especially on higher floors. The innovation marks a significant step forward in the region’s architectural and engineering capabilities.
Senna Tower will pursue LEED Platinum certification, a significant milestone that would make it the first supertall residential building in the world to achieve this level of sustainability. Additionally, it will feature Latin America’s first Tuned Mass Damper (TMD), an advanced system designed to reduce vibrations and sway in high-rise buildings, providing enhanced stability and comfort for residents.
The tower is scheduled to begin construction in late 2025. If completed, Senna Tower will become the first supertall residential building to achieve LEED Platinum certification, the highest sustainability standard awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council. This certification reflects a commitment to energy efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and responsible resource use, ensuring the tower meets the highest global standards for sustainability.
the tower was conceptualized by Brazilian artist Lalalli Senna, niece of the late driver Ayrton Senna
Senna Tower aims to be the first supertall residential building to achieve LEED Platinum certification
the tower will be the first in Latin America to use a Tuned Mass Damper systemskyscraper
Nov 03, 2024
Design Boom
Nikken Sekkei Bridges Dubai'S New Landmark With The World'S Longest CantileverThe recently constructed One Za’abeel mixed-used complex in the United Arab Emirates, crafted by Japanese design firm NIKKEN SEKKEI, features the world’s longest cantilever, spanning 66 meters above the city. The development consists of two elegant skyscrapers (the Tower and The Residences) connected by an enclosed horizontal bridge called The Link, enhancing the city’s architectural landscape. Situated at the gateway to Dubai’s central financial district, the project serves as a landmark for travelers arriving from Dubai International Airport and symbolizes ambition, innovation, and connectivity. Its prime location facilitates easy access to the downtown area, underscoring Dubai’s ongoing progress. One Za’abeel aims to foster a vibrant community catering to residents and global visitors, with a diverse offering of dining options, retail outlets, office spaces, and distinctive urban hotel experiences. The Link, suspended 100 meters in the air, features a 230-meter viewing platform that spans the east-to-west axis between the towers, offering visitors breathtaking panoramic views. ‘One Za’abeel is now the first building that greets visitors as they travel from the airport to the city centre, and will be the last sight as they leave. We wanted to create an elegant building that both represented the spirit of Dubai and provided a strong gateway for the city,’ describes Koko Nakamura, Chief Architect of NIKKEN SEKKEI Ltd.
all images by Hufton + Crow
Constructed with a robust tubular steel member system arranged in a diamond grid pattern along four sides, The Link ensures structural stability while providing a spacious, column-free interior. The construction process involved lifting the first section of The Link, weighing around 8,500 tonnes, over a 12-day period, marking one of the region’s heaviest recorded lifts. The 900-tonne remaining cantilever tip was lifted and attached over a four-day period. Placed between the towers, The Link enhances safety and reduces wind-induced swaying, a frequent issue with tall buildings. One Za’abeel covers 530,000 square meters of mixed-use space, with 12,000 square meters of retail, 26,000 square meters of offices, and new luxury residential spaces. The towers are connected by the Al Mustaqbal Bridge, easing commuting as they drive directly into the downtown area. Creating a lateral new gateway to the city, One Za’abeel Tower reaches a height of 305m, while the second tower, One Za’abeel The Residences, reaches a height of 235 meters. The exteriors by NIKKEN SEKKEI feature Low-E glass with high transparency and high solar shielding performance, with glass fins providing visual interest and solar shielding. The Podium offers retail and dining options, surrounded by green spaces and walkways. Urban parks, a playground, and a garden pool enrich the entrance experience.
a symbol of ambition, innovation, and connectivity
it features two elegant towers connected by an enclosed horizontal bridge
The Link, suspended 100 meters in the air, features a 230-meter viewing platformskyscraper
Nov 03, 2024
Design Boom
Koichi Takada Architects Shapes Brisbane 'Upper House' With Twisting 'Roots'Upper House, situated in South Brisbane, Australia, stands tall as the latest residential project by Koichi Takada Architects. Comprising 188 apartments spread across thirty-three stories, this skyscraper rises to exemplify a fusion of nature, design, resident wellbeing, and sustainability that defines modern urban living. The architecture draws inspiration from the majestic Moreton Bay Fig tree. Echoing the tree’s buttress root system, the building’s facade transitions into a timber pergola which serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose. Crafted with precision by collaborator Theca, this rooftop pergola features intricate twists and curves reminiscent of the tree’s roots, providing stability and anchoring the building to its surroundings. Here, two timber ‘nests’ lend unique gathering spaces for residents, accessible by footbridges from the 32nd floor.
the residential high-rise in South Brisbane, Australia will redefine urban living | image © Scott Burrows
The design team at Koichi Takada Architects shapes the facade of the Upper House as a canvas that tells a story of indigenous history and culture. Designed by Australian artist Judy Watson, the five-story artwork titled Bloodlines weaving string and water, 2023, intricately integrates together metal, light, and narrative. Through this artwork, Watson honors the indigenous heritage that connects people to the land, fostering a sense of inclusion and respect among residents.
Inside, the tower is a sanctuary for holistic wellness. Perched across the Brisbane River from the CBD, the tower boasts a double-story Wellness Club known as Upper Club. Spanning two premium rooftop floors, this expansive facility offers over 1,000 square-meters of world-class amenities designed to promote community interaction and enhance residents’ wellbeing. From infinity pools and spas to fitness clubs and yoga studios, every aspect is crafted to foster a sense of balance and vitality.
the architecture draws from the Moreton Bay Fig tree, lending an expressive design | image © Tom Ferguson
In line with Koichi Takada Architects’ commitment to environmental stewardship, Upper House embodies sustainable design principles throughout. Strategically oriented to maximize natural light and ventilation, the apartments feature outdoor balcony spaces that offer stunning views of the city skyline or lush green landscapes. The building’s energy-efficient systems, recycled materials, and rainwater harvesting capabilities further minimize its environmental footprint, contributing to a greener, more sustainable future. Upper House is the result of a partnership between Aria Property Group and Koichi Takada Architects. Together, they’ve redefined high-density living by seamlessly integrating nature, design, and community into the fabric of urban life. As a beacon on the Brisbane skyline, Upper House embodies the city’s spirit and celebrates its tropical beauty.
a five-story artwork by artist Judy Watson celebrates indigenous history and culture | image © Tom Ferguson
Architect Koichi Takada comments: ‘Now, more than ever, we understand the importance of respecting and acknowledging our rich history in Australia, home to the oldest known civilization on earth. The five-story artwork on the building’s facade was conceived as a way to contribute a valuable narrative to the urban landscape and the work of indigenous artist, Judy Watson, tells stories of our nation’s first people.’
‘The architectural form of Upper House draws inspiration from the Moreton Bay Fig, with ‘architectural roots’ taking us on a journey from our ancient past at its base, up to the future of vertical living. Topped with biodiverse outdoor areas, wellbeing retreat and social hub, Upper House addresses what is referred to as connection deficit.’ the artwork becomes a luminous beacon in the evening | image © Mark Nilon balcony spaces and communal areas promote interaction and community | image © Mark Nilonskyscraper
Nov 03, 2024
Design Boom
Aedas Plans Tower Of Flowing Lines And Nested Rooftop Gardens For ShenzhenAedas proposes a new landmark for Shenzhen with its newly unveiled Huanggang Skyscraper. Standing tall at 247 meters, the tower will stand as a symbolic gateway to the Greater Bay Area and Huanggang Port — an entry point between Shenzhen and Hong Kong — and will play an important role in the Chinese region’s development. The design team hopes to integrate the landscape surrounding the city into the architecture, drawing inspiration from stacking stones and flowing rivers. The fluid volumes and nesting rooftops are planned to resemble cascading water, while the cantilevered canopy at the entrance evoke the image of splashing water.
images © Aedas | @aedas_architects
Stepping into the Huanggang Skyscraper, visitors are greeted by a thirteen-meter-tall, sunlit lobby, designed by Aedas with transparent glass. The layout follows a rigorous, symmetrical form with four stacked circles defining the facade. This optimizes space utilization, offering stunning views and vibrant visuals for the city. The interiors allow for diverse workspace programming with a flexible floor plan divided into four quadrants. Each section offers office depths ranging from ten to fourteen meters, accommodating companies of various sizes. Open office spaces near the crown promote communication and interaction, further enhanced by the inclusion of indoor-outdoor areas. Meanwhile, landscaped ‘sky lobbies’ and gardened rooftop terraces allow space for employees to relax and connect.
Shenzhen’s new landmark will redefine the skyline with inspiration from stacked stones and flowing water
Aedas notes that it designs its Huanggang Skyscraper for Shenzhen with sustainability at the forefront. Vertical fins provide shade, reducing energy consumption, while low-reflection panels on the curtain wall minimize the building’s carbon footprint. Integrated ventilation solutions seamlessly blend into the tower’s aesthetics, ensuring a low-carbon design without compromising visual integrity. Executive Director Chris Chen comments: ‘Built based on the principles of ‘high quality,’ ‘customisation’ and ‘sustainability,’ we envision a harmonious layout of simple geometric shapes together formed by the tower and Huanggang Port, that contributes to the development of the Shenzhen-Hong Kong Cooperation Zone.’
the project is defined by its nested forms and stepping rooftops sky gardens and rooftop terraces will promote wellness in the workplace the 247 meter-tall tower will replicate the fluid forms of natureskyscraper
Nov 03, 2024
Design Boom
Laia Employs Caisson Watertight Structure For Offshore Towers On New York'S ShorelineThe Offshore Towers by LAIA Stem presents a water-based, mixed-use development addressing cultural, resiliency, and technological shifts in New York. Employing caisson technology for land reclamation, it integrates seamlessly with the shoreline, focusing on urban growth, coastal resiliency, and logistical enhancements. As technology giants plan to expand in the city, the project adapts historical water lots, extending Battery Park for added built-up area. The design prioritizes environmental considerations, showcasing an innovative approach to coexistence with the natural environment.
all images by Monolot
Utilizing a foundation with caisson technology, the towers provide stability, underwater space, and strategies for environmental revitalization and energy production. Integrated public areas within caissons complement the existing city. The design team at LAIA Stem aims to address challenges such as gentrification pressures, coastal resiliency, and logistics improvement through innovative land use. Coastal growth factors, including urbanization, population growth, productivity, migrations, tourism, and city sprawl, contribute to the demand for innovative coastal developments, with The Offshore Towers positioning itself to meet these challenges through a thoughtful design approach.
Offshore Towers Waterfront
Offshore Towers facing the Statue of Liberty
Caisson Port Terminal
view from historically reclaimed Governors Islandskyscraper
Nov 03, 2024Design Boom
After Years On Hold, 'The Greenwich By Rafael Viñoly' Resumes Construction In New YorkIn March 2019, a luxury residential tower designed by the late architect Rafael Viñoly had topped out at 125 Greenwich Street in New York City. Since then, the project had been been temporarily paused and has towered, incomplete, amidst the skyline of lower Manhattan. Now, the team has announced that construction has resumed. In celebration of this news, and in honor of its late designer, the skyscraper has received a new name: The Greenwich by Rafael Viñoly. Once it reaches completion, expected in 2024, it will represent one of Viñoly’s final and most remarkable projects for the city — joining his famous ultra-skinny supertall at 432 Park Avenue.
Román Viñoly, son of Rafael Viñoly and Director of Rafael Viñoly Architects comments: ‘My father loved people. He was endlessly curious about how they live their lives and how the spaces he designed for them could contribute to their sense of well-being. The Greenwich is designed to elevate the human experience in a building that celebrates its unique location in the greatest city in the world.’
visualization © Michael Young
The Greenwich by Rafael Viñoly is an 88-story tower at 125 Greenwich Street that will soon redefine the ever-changing skyline of downtown Manhattan. The project is a collaborative effort involving development partners Fortress Investment Group LLC, Bizzi & Partners, and Bilgili. It stands as a tribute to the legacy of its designer, one of the world’s most renowned architects, who had passed in March 2023.
‘As we work to complete construction on The Greenwich by Rafael Viñoly, we are thrilled to be writing an exciting new chapter for this building, which will soon welcome buyers as we launch sales early next year,’ says Davide Bizzi, CEO, Bizzi & Partners. ‘The combination of thoughtfully designed residences, curated amenities, and its premiere location is an attractive offering for discerning buyers and we are thrilled to be working with Douglas Elliman Development Marketing on this launch.’
visualization © Evan Joseph
Inside The Greenwich by Rafael Viñoly, residents will experience the architect’s vision brought to life by critically acclaimed interiors firm MAWD. The architecture was originally envisioned to be defined by its structural elegance, standing slender and tall amidst its exceptional surroundings. This vision led to the creation of a unique structural concept — an exposed concrete column that runs the entire height of the building, lending it an identity that is recognizable and robust. Complementing this strong core is a curved glass facade that adds a contrasting sense of lightness.
The Greenwich by Rafael Viñoly will introduce 272 luxury residences to the city, ranging from studios to three-bedroom apartments, as well as a suite of penthouse residences. Many of these units will open towards panoramic views of the Hudson River, Statue of Liberty, World Trade Center, and the iconic New York City skyline. Over 27,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor leisure, health, and wellness amenities spread across four floors. Sky-high amenity floors will be located in the tower’s crown, perched over 800 feet over the city. Here, residents will have access to a lap pool, spa, and fitness center, all with views of Manhattan and beyond.
project info:
project title: The Greenwich by Rafael Viñoly | @thegreenwichnyc
architecture: Rafael Viñoly Architects | @rva_ny
location: 125 Greenwich Street, New York, NY
previous coverage: September 2017, March 2019
completion: expected 2024
visualizations: © Michael Young, Evan Josephskyscraper
Nov 03, 2024Design Boom
Explore Brooklyn'S Twisting 'Olympia' Tower As Amenities Complete In DumboHill West Architects and interiors studio Workstead have unveiled a new glimpse inside the Olympia Tower which rises along Brooklyn‘s East River waterfront in Dumbo. With its unique, sail-shaped form, the architecture sculpturally twists as it ascends above the historic neighborhood, opening out toward sweeping views of the historic waterfront and the Lower Manhattan skyline beyond. With its careful craftsmanship and materiality rooted in the context of its location, the Olympia Tower is bringing seventy-six luxury homes and amenity spaces to the growing neighborhood.
Standing tall at thirty-three stories, Olympia is a condominium tower that is soon to set a new standard in the real estate landscape of Dumbo. Over half of its homes — ranging from one- to five-bedrooms — have already been claimed. Explore visualizations of the residences here!
images © Pavel Bendov
Hill West Architects and Workstead drew inspiration from Dumbo’s rich nautical history with the design of Olympia — its sail-shaped architecture and materiality paying homage to the area’s maritime roots. The interiors and amenities of the residences are curated using a palette of colors and materials that echo the waterfront and industrial legacy of Dumbo’s waterfront. This thoughtful integration of design and history creates harmonizes contemporary luxury with Brooklyn heritage.
Olympia Dumbo stands along the entrance to the Brooklyn Bridge
Olympia Dumbo brings 38,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor amenities, spread across three floors. These wellness offerings for residents include swimming pools — both indoor and outdoor — along with New York City’s highest private outdoor tennis court with stunning, up-close views of the Brooklyn Bridge. What’s more, the building hosts a fitness center, sauna and steam room, a movement studio, a separate spin studio, and even a juice bar. Young residents also have access to a playroom, an outdoor shipwreck-themed playground, a private park, and a waterpark. The inclusion of family-friendly amenities are suited to the family-oriented lifestyle of the fast-developing neighborhood.
the narrow tower gradually twists as it ascends with its sail-like form, the building has become a new icon along Brooklyn’s East River waterfront occupants enter the tower through a landscaped thresholdskyscraper
Nov 03, 2024