Pacific Heights

The shape of Pacific Heights was inspired by the image created by the collision of two water drops. At the same time, the volume resembles a jellyfish that emerges from the water’s surface.

Both concepts are closely connected to the idea of water: the first suggests water as an element that can sculpt shapes and reliefs, and the second emphasises an environment that creates and nurtures life.

The two concepts that inspire the volume are based on two hypo-stasis of water, one as shape-creating and second as life – supporting element.

As a result, the skyscraper integrates naturally into the landscape giving the impression that it rises above the waves from the depths of the ocean, just like the seamount chains nearby.

The tower works like a tree, not only thanks to its shape and structure, but also through its functioning structural systems. The branches are represented by the upper rings that collect the sunlight and transform it into energy through the photo-voltaic panels, just like leafs use the sunlight in photosynthesis. The trunk is the vertical main structure that sustains the upper side and protects the tubes that carry the energy throughout the entire body.  The island assures the stability of the object, similar to the roots, only this time they float on the surface of the water. The central tubes play a key role in the functioning of the system, as they extract water from the ocean and carry it upwards, then bring it back to the underground levels.

Considering the ever increasing issues in today’s society, like the decrease in available building terrain, climate change and overpopulation, this skyscraper proposed a new model for future projects, a design that could easily reinterpret the principles and the technology that created this floating city.

In terms of self-sufficiency, the project uses alternative energies from the sun, the wind and the waves. Water is a precious natural resource that is used carefully on the island: modern systems collect rainwater, they desalinate seawater and  recycle used water.