The world is becoming overcrowded, and it is estimated that by 2040 the population of NYC will grow by another million. This is definitely a problem that needs solving, which is why Metropolis Mag launched the ‘Living Cities’ design competition. The aim of the competition was for designers and architects to propose plans for a residential tower of 30 to 40 stories. The designs also required the use of an innovative structural steel system. Sustainability, multi-use strategies, lifestyle amenities, and multi-generational design were also required to be a part of the proposal.
The second runner up in the competition was a design for an innovative and interesting skyscraper called New York Tomorrow. It is a slender hybrid residential tower, which is both sustainable and highly digitalized. The entire structure is 420 feet tall, but has only a 400-square-foot footprint.
The new tower would be located on the corner of 68th Street and Madison Avenue. The structure would utilize the space between existing buildings for the tower base, while the main living area would be located above the existing buildings there. The special façade of the tower was designed by keeping the solar and wind conditions of the site in mind. A double skin on the south facing side acts as a sun protection shield, while the north organizes wind flow to allow cross ventilation to residential spaces throughout the year, which together minimize the need for air conditioning. Since the proposed tower is so slender, cross ventilation is also possible.
Steel is the main structural material. On the ground level it is used to form a series of columns to support an elaborate rib-like shell. A staggered truss system above this shell spans the width of the structure. This section serves as the communal space of the building, and is connected to the street level by a public elevator. This space houses a co-working area, and auditorium and is also the lobby from which the individual apartments can be reached. The apartment units would also vary in size to accommodate different incomes and lifestyles.
Article tags: alternative energy, Development, energy efficiency, floor plan, green building, modern design, residential, skyscraper