Japanese architectural studio Kengo Kuma & Associates design the new Alberni, which is a residential skyscraper with 43 stories. It is located in downtown Vancouver right by the waterfront within the Coal Harbour neighborhood. The structure has a curved look that arches from the street when it rises and then straightened up when it gets closer to the top.
The studio described this as a "Boolean Scoop" which was added to preserve the views along the block and maximize natural light. Studio founder Kengo Kuma tells Dezeen that "The uniformity of Vancouver's skyscraper materiality is both its strength – a characteristic, unified cityscape – and its opportunity to provide something different. Our decisions were less a direct reaction to the ubiquitous glass and more an intent to create a tower whose tall mass was made of smaller pieces, keeping to the realm of metal and wood."
Image Credit: Kengo Kuma
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Curved Skyscrapers
- Designing skyscrapers with a curved look and unique architectural features.
- Preservation of Views
- Incorporating design elements to preserve views along the block.
- Maximizing Natural Light
- Implementing design strategies to maximize the entry of natural light into buildings.
Where This Applies
- Architecture
- Opportunity for architects to explore innovative designs for skyscrapers.
- Construction
- Construction companies can adapt to the demand for unique architectural designs and materials.
- Real Estate
- Real estate developers can market buildings with curved designs and maximize natural light as unique selling points.
