Bamboo Tower

A research and analysis surrounding construction methods, materials, and building typology in hong kong. In addition, new methodology and future possibilities of construction and materials are also speculated and proposed.

The building mimics the sectional anatomy of bamboo with its nodes and weaving pillars, resembling bamboo’s cavities and fibers. The spiral is inspired by phyllotaxis patterns from nature as a form of biomimicry. As a whole, the biophilic residential tower becomes a monument that celebrates the unique properties of bamboo and pioneers biophilic design.

The public space contains different landscape typologies, each with its own function. Lobby, organic market, bar, and elevator are located at the center. The main entrance is situated in adjacent to the main road, facing the waterfront of Kowloon's Bay.

Each unit is made modular due to its uniform plan, further easing the prefabrication and installation process of the construction. We’re attempting to mimic the atmosphere of bamboo forest in an urban setting through the installation of bamboo finish on walls, compressed bamboo tiles on floors & ceilings, and bamboo plantation on the deck.

The tower utilizes gaps within the bamboo facades to naturally ventilate the building, allowing it to breathe and simultaneously let natural lighting to shower the interior spaces. Furthermore, each unit designed with a semi-private plot garden for the users to grow their own food, rejuvenate, interact with neighbors, and encourage a collective living habit.

Different from the regular high rise building, with proximate access to only adjacent (next door) neighbors, the Cross Neighboring System (CNS) allows every unit to additionally connect with the adjacent neighbors above and below. The plot garden in between the units serves as a medium of interaction for the users allowing them to live collectively.

Adding plants in a highrise building is a challenge by itself. We solve this by selectively planting consumable plants. The plants are then watered with nutritious grey water instead to avoid pumping extra water supply throughout the building. The water streams down the building allowing a hydroelectric plant to function thus saving more energy consumption.

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