# Tree-Covered Canopy Towers Sou Fujimoto's Mixed-Use Canopy Building is Coming to Nice, France By Kalin Ned | Published 2018-01-23 | Eco Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/canopy-building References: [dezeen](https://www.dezeen.com/2018/01/22/sou-fujimoto-lambert-lenack-nice-france-masterplan-joia-meiridia/) & [sou-fujimoto.net](http://www.sou-fujimoto.net/) Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto is well-known for his ambitious proposals for [towering timber buildings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wood-up) or [floating forest villages](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/office-national-des-forts) and his latest project is not askew — a towering canopy building with verdant balconies in Nice. His designs are contemporary and operate on the mixed-use principle by incorporating the natural environment within the concept of the building. The proposal for project 'Joia Meìridia' is drafted by a team, led by French firm Lambert Lénack. The development consists of 800 residential units, a hotel, shops and offices. All buildings are to be thoughtfully arranged around designed public spaces. Each architect was tasked with a different aspect of the project and Sou Fujimoto came up with a 54-meter-high tower, wrapped in [wavy canopies](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/centro-de-arte-moderna-gulbenkian). Cut-outs in the canopy building's design will allow for an uninterrupted flow of light and accompanying shade spots for all levels of the building complex. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.9/10 - Popularity: 70% | Activity: 40% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Eco](https://www.trendhunter.com/eco) > [Eco Architecture](https://www.trendhunter.com/ecoarchitecture) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Mixed-use Canopy Buildings:** This trend presents an opportunity for innovative designs that seamlessly blend natural environments with architectural concepts. - **Verdant Balconies:** The inclusion of verdant balconies in building designs creates a unique and refreshing environment for residents and visitors. - **Towering Timber Structures:** The use of timber in constructing tall buildings offers a sustainable and visually striking alternative to traditional materials. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Architecture:** Architects have the potential to revolutionize building designs by incorporating natural elements and sustainable materials. - **Real Estate Development:** Developers can explore mixed-use concepts and incorporate verdant features to enhance the appeal and value of their projects. - **Hospitality:** Hoteliers can create unique guest experiences by integrating natural elements and green spaces into their designs. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Vast Wooden Structural Pavilions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/grand-ring.md) - [Forest Tower Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wonderwoods-vertical-forest.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) - [Woodland-Inspired Timber Office Spaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pavilion-jardins.md) - [Bamboo Forest Structures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/amazon-rainforest-pavilion.md) - [Hidden Garden Timber Pavilions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/a-room-around-a-tree.md) - [Contemporary Rental Housing Series](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-canopy.md) - [Wooden Residential Parisian Buildings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/yamatani.md)