Concept
The aim of this project is to ask how the classic
concept of a landmark can be reconsidered. It is less about an expressive,
iconic architectural form; rather, it is a return to content and actual, real challenges
for the imminent post-oil-era. This project represents a message of a society
facing the future; thus, it is the representation of an inner attitude. Our project,
standing in the tradition of a building/city as a machine, shall provide energy
both to the city of Rio de Janeiro and its citizens while using natural resources. We
hope to attain an international Olympic message with a political appeal. After
hosting the United Nations Earth Summit in 1992, Rio de Janeiro will once
again be the starting point for a global green movement and for a sustainable
development of urban structures. It will perhaps even become a symbol for the first
zero carbon footprint Olympic Games.
ApproachThe project consists of a solar power plant that by
day produces energy for the city respectively the Olympic village. Excessive
energy will be pumped as seawater into a tower. By night, the water can be
released again; with the help of turbines, it generates electricity for the
night. The electricity produced can be used for the lighting of the tower or for the city.
On special occasions, this machine/building turns into an impressive wonder of
nature: an urban waterfall, a symbol for the forces of nature. At the same time,
it will be the representation of a collective awareness of the city towards its
great surrounding landscape. Via an urban plaza located 60 meters over sea level you
gain access to the building. Through the amphitheatre, you reach the entrance
situated on the ground floor.
Organisation
Both entrance area and amphitheatre can serve as a
place for social gatherings and events. The public spaces are also accessible from
this point on. The cafeteria and the shop are situated beneath the waterfall
and offer a breathtaking view. The public elevator takes the visitor to the
observation decks and the urban balcony. The administration offices can be
reached directly from the foyer. Its inner circulation is organised by an own entrance
and the elevator. The semi-public spaces are located in the back area of the building;
thus, they can be used separately. A retractable platform for bungee jumping is
located on level +90.5. Long distance observation can be done from the
observation deck on level +98.0. The urban balcony is situated at the top of
the tower 105 meters above sea level. Here the visitor has a 360 view of the
landscape and can experience the waterfall while walking over the glass sky
walk.
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