This project is the complete process of the conceptual design of a “High-Rise” building with a multi-purpose office space on the first level and apartments in the towers of this uniquely designed structure.
Here is a glimpse into the step by step design phases for the completion of this eloquently purposed and intricately detailed design.
The site has versatile views, intersection of urban programs, rich vegetation on site, urban density on a macro level, proximity to main service roads, accessibility, connectivity, contours, air flow and a vast range of contextual programs.
The spatial zoning was an axial division based on the programs dedicated to each zone in the previous step. This loowed a better understanding of the division of spaces and efficient circulation paths within the existing site.
The conceptual massing is essentially a layering of mass according to the spatial zoning. This gives an idea of the form or at least helps to develop it.
Here, the form is developing from an originally asymmetrical mass and that translates till the final form aligned with the function of the interior spaces.
The site section showcases the unique contours of the site. This site in particular had a individual set tone based on its natural contours which provided an interesting contrast to its urban context.
This precedent study is a famous high-rise designed by the well-known Japanesee Architect, “Kengo Kuma”.
The building is better known as “Alberni by Kuma” and is a 43-story tower. The skyscaper combines 181 residences with retail spaces and a restaurant in a rectilinear volume accented by “scoops” on two sides. Wood panels are seen under the extruded floor plates. This is where the facade has been “scooped”. The design creates patio spaces meant to act as open gardens and personal urban spaces.
The second precedent study is the Unilever Headquarters designed by Steven Thor, located in Jakarta, Indonesia.
This precedent study helped understand and look into architectural design techniques to not only merge the form with the site but also to combine open and closed spaces and provide efficient circulation within the form.
The circulation study was an important part of this precedent study to understand how visual connectivity aligns with circulation throughout a building interior.
Based on the site analysis and precedent studies, the masterplan started taking shape, based on the function for the High-Rise building.
Single bedroom: 375sqft
Double bedroom: 480sqft
This is a prime example of “form follows function” because once the masterplan was developed and the functional zoning took space, the form started to develop on its own.
The masterplan developed based on site circulation and connectivity based on the micro context of the site. This also decides the orientation and access points of the overall building design.
This is an initial section cut from the 3D model which helped to understnd and visualize the interior spaces and plan inside the high-rise towers more efficiently.
The 3D model started out with a simpler form that was not only asymmetrical but also rather fluid. The rounded edges complimented the idea of fluid movements and connectivity within the building and the site and broke away from rigid norms.The next step would be to design the facade and incorporate it into the structure.
The final design of the “High-Rise” building was an organic form with visual connectivity, incorporating sky-walks for inviting views and allowing efficient circulation across the towers.
The built structure was not only a site-sensitive design but also an immaculately planned built environment.