Koichi Takada Architects shows the first images of the recently completed study for a spectacular skyscraper in Sydney, Australia.
Infinity is a mixed-use residential skyscraper with a huge opening inside. It not only has an aesthetic function: it creates a natural cooling effect, thus reducing energy consumption. A sort of Iceberg effect.
Infinity has a hole to cool the building. It was born with the idea of letting the wind pass through, to obtain a natural cooling effect of the internal spaces through pressure differentials. It is an iceberg skyscraper in a highly urbanized environment.
Infinity, an iceberg skyscraper in Sydney
Melting icebergs are the result of global warming. Given Australia's proximity to the South Pole, Australia receives strong winds and cold fronts from the southeast, a polar vortex that begins right in Antarctica.
The aerodynamic shape and large opening at the center of the iceberg skyscraper act as an entrance for daylight and natural ventilation, enhancing the end-user experience and influencing how the building integrates with its surroundings.
Infinity's large outdoor pool sits at the base of the opening and when the wind passes over this large body of water, it cools the air and guides it into the heart of the architecture: the central public courtyard.
Infinity: designed to breathe
The opening of the iceberg skyscraper becomes a key component to provide better indoor air quality and thermal comfort for residents. Infinity reduces energy consumption, and minimizes dependence on air conditioning.
The complexity of the project required extensive simulations, wind tunnel testing and computer modeling to ensure performance targets were met.
All the work to achieve Sydney's iceberg skyscraper is an important design strategy. A strategy that aims to improve not only living conditions, but to make a sustainable contribution to the urban environment.
Not just wind, however: Infinity is “sculpted” so that the fluid form also increases year-round sunlight into the surrounding public spaces.
An example of how advanced design (perhaps with a good contribution from generative design) is leading us to increasingly futuristic, but at the same time increasingly "natural" buildings.
