# Cactus-Shaped Architecture Green Cactus Building Sheds Sustainable Spikes in Qatar By Alexandra Choli | Published 2009-03-12 | Eco Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cactus-green-building-sustainable-architecture-aesthetic-architects-doha-qa References: [thedesignblog.org](http://www.thedesignblog.org/entry/a-green-cactus-to-bloom-in-doha/) & [aesarch](http://www.aesarch.com/) Urban architecture is being increasingly penetrated by sustainability, much like the way the green [cactus-shaped building](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/symphony-tower) by Aesthetic Architects will be penetrating the Doha Skyline in Qatar. Drawing inspiration from the ability of the cactus to survive and flourish in the desert, the spiky construction is designed to be significantly energy-efficient. It features sunshade panels that open and close according to the intensity of the sun, as well as a magnificent interior botanic dome, further boosting its green profile. The high-rise building follows the innovative approach to [sustainable architecture](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sudameris-plaza) that Bangkok-based Aesthetic Architects GO Group is recognized for. It will be the new office complex for the [Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Urban Planning](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-standard-singapore) in Doha, aiming to help reduce the carbon footprint of Qatar. It probably aspires to be the most cutting-edge cactus in the world, as well. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.3/10 - Popularity: 37% | Activity: 55% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Eco](https://www.trendhunter.com/eco) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Sustainable Architecture:** The cactus-shaped building showcases the trend of incorporating sustainability into urban architecture. - **Energy-efficiency:** The sunshade panels and intelligent design features demonstrate the trend of creating energy-efficient buildings. - **Green Building Design:** The interior botanic dome highlights the trend of integrating green spaces into architectural designs. ### Who This Affects Most - **Architectural Design:** The cactus-shaped building presents an opportunity for architectural firms to explore innovative and sustainable designs. - **Renewable Energy:** The energy-efficient features in the building create a demand for renewable energy solutions and technologies. - **Urban Planning:** The construction of sustainable buildings like the cactus-shaped architecture is driving the need for innovative urban planning strategies. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Climate-Sensitive Pavilion Structures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/querkraft.md) - [Rain-Collecting Skyscrapers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bpas-architects.md) - [Organic Striking Tower Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-leaves.md) - [Greenery-Filled Skyscraper Terrarium](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/terrarium-cheongdam.md) - [Vaulted Glass Roofed Greenhouses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/casa-de-vidrio.md) - [Sustainable Green-Integrated Towers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sudameris-plaza.md) - [Cube-Shaped Skyscraper Buildings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mukaab.md) - [Elevated Garden-Filled Buildings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cloud-11.md) - [Plant-Filled Latticed Buildings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/touching-eden-house.md)