Tower 42, London | Debbie Flevotomou Architects

Prior commencing work on the design of this Tower, we analysed the use of the building, the footfall, the busy areas and empty areas, the energy performance of the building and where there is room for improvement. We identified potential energy generation techniques and ways to decorbanise the structure based on the specific location and uses. The potential of EDI and the possible implication. Finally, the best biophilic technique: Nature in the Space, Natural Analogues, and Nature of the Space.

We created the “greenprint” of the future! A THINK NATURE design.

 
The redesign of Tower 42 in London, a concept that has not been realised yet, has already been awarded 9 international awards and was featured in several magazines.

The Architecture Masterprize is one of the most prestigious architectural award worldwide with hundred of thousands of submissions from around the world.
The functionality of the new design is the expansion of the floorplates – the biggest design problem at the moment- through the introduction of a clever facade without the need to change the existing structure.

The existing concrete core is surrounding by 3 existing cantileved leaves. Each leaf (A,B,C) is to work as a branch of the core. The new branches will create a spiral 3 dimensional movement interconnected to the core both vertically and horizontally; this will allow for constant movements changes giving maximum structural strength.

 
It was referred to by many as a masterpiece of engineering.

Due to the changing shapes, visitors of the area will interpret the building differently, talk about it and share their experiences, of which will vary according to which angle they view it from.

Six new communal gardens has been implemented to the design, assisting with the natural ventilation of the building and helping the occupants’ amenity and well-being. A Biophilic design.

The new facade is designed to carry the load to the ground floor, allowing for the larger floor plates to be increased by 30% making the tower more commercially viable. The internal areas are still open plan, even if the new construction is blended with the old.

The concept is to create a sculpture through the unequal movements of the floor plates and the facade; an improvising scheme.

Part of the THINK NATURE process is the decarbonisation and the creation of a green building.

Environmental friendly techniques used in the design:

Green Roof
Green Floors (Gardens) (6 in total)
Electrohomic glass
Passive solar
Greywater treatment
Eco-friendly lighting and fittings
Natural cross ventilation
Maximization of daylight
Night cooling
Recycled plastic
Recycled materials
Shape of the building prevents wind turbulence
PV Panels on the curved parts of the facade
Super insulated structure
District heating

The building looks as if is in constant change. As for every piece of art, tries to see a moment in time. This moment depends on the visitor and which angle they view it from.