SI - Vertical Catalyst
The globalization of architectural discourse since the industrial revolution led to a singular modern ideology; towards an ‘International Style’ in architecture. But, within this light, the skyscraper typology still lacks a coherent generic definition that justifies its existence. We propose a ‘Systeme Internationale’ (SI) as a redefinition of the typology of the skyscraper.
View across the new planned area in Almere
Switching Verticality
We regard the skyscraper as an urban feature that enables connection and acts as a durable catalyst within the urban fabric, rather then facilitating solitude through gatedness.
Past settlement patterns vs. present
Separation of activities in major urban centers
‘Raison d’être’
As a result of functional segregation in modern town-planning modern areas of dwellings have been grouped together as islands without identity or ‘raison d’être’.
Tower base conceptual section
The needs of the contemporary city do not correspond to the direct desires of people.
Maslow’s Pyramid
Contemporary housing areas fulfill basic needs for shelter and safety, only step one in Maslow’s pyramid for human desires’ evolution.
Maslow’s pyramid vs. organization of program
Social Community
Instead of being part of a large generic city, a social community will arise around, throughout and because of the tower.
Urban functions within cities
View over new planned area in Almere
Form finding diagrams
Form finding diagrams
Contextually Embedded
An underground station to commute between cities, a parking garage for easy access from the surrounding neighborhoods and three elevators that will take you to the social junctions up in the building.
Sustainable & Adaptable
The design framework given by the skyscraper is adaptive and will provide possibilities to depict an ever-changing society.
Highly functional facade for interior comfort and energy saving
Cultural centers in the building with facades removed
Team: Martijn de Geus, Vision Included collaborators
Project Year: 2009
Location: Almere, Netherlands