Green Skyscrapers
In the next few days we will showcase 25 innovative proposals for green skyscrapers. These projects were submitted for the Annual Skyscraper Competition from 2006 to 2009.
Project 5 of 25
Nikolay Simeonov
Bulgaria
Four Seasons Skyscraper
Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, grew rapidly after the fall of the communist regime. It is the most enticing for business and living city in the country. Unemployment rate is less than 3%, comparing with 12% for the state. About 20 years ago, together with the building of the subway line, the boulevard T.Aleksandrov was laid out. The idea is to connect the center with less developed west areas. Boulevard in words, more correctly to say road, generally flanked by old, almost ruin-like housing fund. The building of new structures is impending, the dispute is how dense and high. Sofia used to have fame for green city. The parks and the gardens have been neglected. The asphalt has conquered the grass, almost no new trees have been planted.
The plot, 5800 m2, predetermined for hi-rise, is municipal property, situated close to the formal government square, between T.Aleksandrov and the pedestrian a hundred years old street Pirotska. Archeological remains, the ancient city wall, pass through. There is open public space, between the plot and the boulevard.
The main question is haw to insert the skyscraper into five story banal environment. One of the answers is to replace the building with “something else” without typical architectural tectonics and elements, something without scale. The similar things can bi compared, the disparate not.
The proposal is to cover the whole building with greenery, creeping on metal web. Ever changing natural double skin filters the air, produces oxygen, protects from heat, cold, noise. Deciduous plants will let the sun in, when is needed and stop it in summer time. In chilly weather, the creepers and the web could be sprayed with water and the frost would create air cushion, preventing from overcooling. A few “sky courtyards” are placed randomly. Every one planted with different trees – blooming and evergreen. Tropical conservatory will keep the green color all the seasons.
There are two ways to preserve the archeology. The first is to be museum exhibit, the second – to be part of the real life. The second is chosen. One can be in touch with the remains accidentally.
The third goal is to let the people to stroll freely in the spot. The open area (without passing through doors) is five sixths of the plot – sidewalk, sunken patios, roof garden smoothly connecting the vertical greenery with K.Boris street.
The scheme of the tall body is simple and straightforward. The central core, almost symmetrical, is very suitable for the earthquake conditions in Sofia. Around – office spaces for routine activities. The bottom floors are open for public, where the archeological remains are integrated. Below parking, accessible from the two existing ramps.
Board - 1
Board - 2
