The tallest green skyscraper in China is built to improve the vertical community that comprises nine areas stacked one above the other. The asymmetrical shape of the building is derived to build a lighter structure. Therefore, there is a structural torque of 24% to minimize wind load. The tower also has a spiral parapet that collects rainwater and is used for the internal air conditioning system.
The self-sustainable building produces its renewable energy through the use of photovoltaic energy that forms part of the roof. The building includes a treated heavy wood structure with a lifespan of 250 years that helps maintain a constant internal temperature for longer due to its thermal mass. Designed to achieve one of the healthiest workspaces in the world with the use of passive energy to reduce energy and water consumption by 80% and 75%, respectively. A healthy environment is achieved through 100% of the intake of air that is filtered to the outside with a complete change of air per hour.
The 130 m high skyscraper encompasses a vertical green wall that covers 50% of the building's surface. Indoor and outdoor loggias were created to protect residents from noise, wind and sun. The building also has a cantilevered heliostat that helps direct light rays to the garden below. Built with 40% of the building's surface resting on the sea, there is a give-and-take relationship with the body of marine water.
The base with a tiered platform is used to promote the growth of natural coastal life. In addition, the structure uses seawater for its heating and cooling systems. Other ecological features include a living roof that houses several local plants to recover rainwater and attract birds and butterflies. The building consists of twin towers that are linked by three bridges that support 3 wind turbines of 29 m in diameter each, which helps to generate between 11 and 15% of its energy needs.
The shape of the structure is inspired by the sails of a ship to improve the acceleration of air flow to the turbines. Designed as two towers that extend towards its north end, it has its opening towards the south end with an expansion area that houses 3 six-story atriums with gardens that form the lungs of the building. The building also has a 24 m high waterfall that helps control the humidity of the incoming air depending on the different seasons. A resilient model designed to withstand earthquakes and typhoons is also energy efficient, since its energy consumption is reduced annually by 33.41 million kWh, which adds to the cost savings of more than 2 million US dollars per year.
Five of the ecological systems used in building engineering are radiant floors, gray water recycling, solar energy, geothermal systems and energy-efficient window systems. With the limited non-renewable resources available, architects have become increasingly aware and are focusing on achieving green buildings that are environmentally responsible. Therefore, a green building aims to increase resource efficiency, which creates a positive social, economic and environmental impact. A combination of green systems and practices, such as radiant floors, greywater systems, solar energy, geothermal and energy-efficient window systems, that work together is the best way to achieve successful sustainable systems in a building.
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