Ecofriend
March 6 2010
OFIS Architecture proposes a solar-powered earthquake-proof tower for Armenia
OFIS Architecture has proposed a next-gen `All Seasons Tent Tower’ as
a part of the Mercedes-Benz hotel tower competition for the city of
Yerevan, Armenia. The tower features two terraced cylindrical towers
where the higher tower will be used as a restaurant, pool, spa and
fitness center and bar.
The towers will also house a hotel and apartments along with a
business center, shops and garage. Since the region is prone to
earthquakes, the deciding factor was a building that can be safe
during the next strike. The structure has been designed in a fashion
that resists gravity load and the forces resulting from earthquakes.
The towers are positioned in a way that creates a dominant view from
the city.
Photovoltaic cells are integrated into the atrium roof to generate
power for the tower. The façade skin covers the terraces of the
towers. During summer the metal mesh of the towers is covered by
greenery, while during winter it is white and partially covered with
snow.
The designers have focused on energy conservation by optimizing the
environmental conditions. The external facades are incorporated with a
high performance skin that reduces solar gain during summer. A
concrete slab embedded pipe system has also been included to provide
cooling without draft problems and provide heating during the cold
winter months.
see photos at roposes-a-solar-powered-earthquake-proof-tower-for -armenia/